Rena Mae Bordeaux Sparkman, 86, of Burgaw passed gently from her earthly life on Friday, August 22, 2014 at New Hanover Regional Medical Center.

She was born April 26, 1928 in Pender County, the daughter of the late Waitus George Bordeaux, Sr. and Thaddie Thelma Jones Bordeaux. Also remembered is her husband, Preston Lee "P.L." Sparkman; sister, Geneva Malpass Moss and brother, Waitus G. Bordeaux, Jr., all who preceded Rena Mae in death.

Rena Mae is survived by her daughter, Sandra Sparkman Burwell and her husband, Richard "Dickie" of Wilmington; grandchildren, Russell David Burwell and Jenny Marie Burwell; sister-in-law, Joyce Bordeaux; cousin, Gordon Bordeaux; special niece, Sallie Ritter; special friend, Victoria Teal; and many extended family and friends.

She was a faithful member of Burgaw Presbyterian Church where in 2003 Rena Mae was awarded Honorary Life Membership given by Presbyterian Women of her church.

Not only was Rena Mae a beloved wife and wonderful mother, grandmother, and sister, but a generous friend to all who knew her. Rena Mae's quiet faith and thankfulness for her many blessings spoke clearly to family and friends. She will be remembered as a true Southern lady filled with grace, kindness and compassion.

The family would like to express their grateful appreciation to the staff of The Commons of Brightmore for the love and excellent care given to "Mama". Thanks also to 10th Floor New Hanover Regional Medical Center and Lower Cape Fear Hospice staffs.

Funeral service will be 11:00 a.m. on Monday, August 25, 2014 at Burgaw Presbyterian Church with The Rev. LaVera Parato and The Rev. Dr. Ray Mendenhall officiating. Burial will follow in Riverview Memorial Park. The family will receive friends in the church parlor at 10:00 a.m. until hour of the service.

The family would like you to consider a memorial gift to Lower Cape Fear Hospice Foundation, 1414 Physicians Dr., Wilmington, NC 28401 or to Burgaw Presbyterian Church, PO Box 565, Burgaw, NC 28425 in memory of Rena Mae.

Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family by selecting "Memory Wall" above.

Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Burgaw.

Funeral service will be 11:00 a.m. on Monday, August 25, 2014 at Burgaw Presbyterian Church with The Rev. LaVera Parato and The Rev. Dr. Ray Mendenhall officiating. Burial will follow in Riverview Memorial Park. The family will receive friends in the church parlor at 10:00 a.m. until hour of the service.