William "Sparky" Hurst

William “Sparky” Joe Hurst, age 68, of Edmond, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 10, 2025, after courageously living with Parkinson’s Disease for 25 years.

Sparky was born on November 28, 1956, in Blackwell, OK, to Artie Louis Hurst and Jeanette Sue (Ryan) Hurst. He grew up in Newkirk, OK, where he attended school and was active in football and FFA. His enthusiasm for life and community spirit was clear early on—he even served as President of the Pep Club.

He continued his education at Southwestern Oklahoma State University, where he distinguished himself as both a leader and a friend to many. Sparky served as Student Senate President and Interfraternity Council President, was recognized as an Outstanding Student Leader, and was an active member of the Tau Kappa Epsilon, where he served as Social Chairman. These roles allowed him to form lifelong friendship and left a lasting impact on the campus community.

Sparky began his professional career in banking in Clinton, OK, and went on to work in financial institutions in Ponca City, OK, Hominy, OK, and Katy, TX. Known as someone who never met a stranger, Sparky had a natural ability to connect with everyone he encountered. His warmth and genuine interest in people made him not only a respected professional, but a trusted friend to clients and colleagues. He built relationships and brought positivity into every workplace he entered.

On November 19, 1988, Sparky married the love of his life, Debra “Debbie” Hurst, in Ponca City, OK. Their lives were forever changed when they welcomed their daughter, Emberly, whose arrival made their family complete. Sparky and Debbie shared a deep love of traveling, and some of their happiest memories were made on cruises – exploring new places, meeting new people, and enjoying their time together on the open water. Over the years, the family made their home in Ponca City, OK, Sand Springs, OK and Katy, TX, before returning to their beloved Oklahoma in 2020, settling in Edmond.

Sparky’s favorite pastimes were hunting and fishing, which he especially enjoyed sharing with his best friends. He took great pride in his many trophy deer and fish mounts that showcased his skill and passion for the outdoors. He was fortunate to have a loving, understanding wife that allowed his mounts to be displayed proudly in their home. Those who knew him will fondly remember his love of a good hunt, a peaceful day on the water, and the laughter that always came with them.

Sparky is survived by his wife, Debbie Hurst; daughter, Emberly Hurst; mother-in-law, Mary Bryant of Weatherford, OK; sisters-in-law, Marilyn Marquis and husband Chuck of Weatherford, OK, and Cathy Shadid and husband Mark of Norman, OK; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Artie Hurst; mother, Jeanette Sue (Ryan) Hurst; stepmother, Lura (Sanders) Hurst; brother, Artie Hurst III; and sister, Tammy (Hurst) Barton.

Sparky chose to be cremated, and there will be no formal viewing or family visitation. Instead, a celebration of his life will be held on Friday, November 28, 2025, which would have been his 69th birthday. The celebration will take place at Elms and Oaks Venue, 13700 N. Eastern Ave., Edmond, OK. The memorial service will begin at 2:00 p.m., followed by a come-and-go birthday party from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. Sparky always enjoyed a good party, and this is how his family and friends will honor his remarkable life.

Matthew’s Funeral Home is handling arrangements. Flowers may be sent to the funeral home at 601 S. Kelly, Edmond, OK. If desired, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wings Special Needs Community, 1349 E. Wilshire Blvd, Oklahoma City, OK 73111 (www.wingsok.org).

Sparky will be remembered for his kindness, perseverance, humor, and the joy he brought to everyone who knew him. His strength, spirit, and love for life will continue to inspire all whose lives he touched.