(DailyAnswer.org) – Former professional golfer Stephanie Sparks has passed away at the age of 50.
An online obituary revealed that Sparks, who co-hosted the “Big Break” reality show on the Golf Channel, died on April 13. Fellow host Tom Abbott confirmed her death in a post on X on April 20. Abbott commented on how saddened and shocked he was by Sparks’ death, and that he had fond memories of the seven seasons they spent working together. The star’s cause of death has not been revealed. After a successful career as an amateur golfer, Sparks played a year on the LPGA tour in 2000, but she was forced to retire due back injuries and turned to television instead.
Sparks competed in the 1994 Curtis Cup representing the U.S. when she was 13. She also had a movie role, starring as Alexa Stirling in the Bobby Jones: A Stroke of Genius in 2004. A native of Wheeling, West Virginia, she was living in Orlando, Florida at the time of her death. Sparks was a supporter of a Breast Cancer foundation in Orlando, and in her later years she advocated for hospice care.
After her change in career focused on broadcasting, the golfer reported on tournaments and hosted multiple series on the Golf Channel. Abbott commented that Sparks, having been a professional golfer herself, related to how tough it was for contestants when working as a TV host. He added that she “rode their emotions” based on her own experience in the sport when they worked together on the show. Comments poured in from fans after news surfaced of the golfer’s passing, and one recalled attending Wheeling Park with the golfer, saying she had a “wonderful heart”.
The family will hold a private funeral service for Sparks. Bill Mallon, PGA Tour golfer, commented that she had gone too soon. Sparks’ obituary stated that warmth, kindness and “cherished” memories of laughter were left behind by the golfer. Abbott said she played a vital role in the Big Break’s success, and extended his condolences to her family.
Copyright 2024, DailyAnswer.org
