Robbie J. Sparks was born on August 19, 1941, in Atlanta, Georgia, as the first of eight children. She was educated in the Atlanta Public School System, where she developed the resilience, determination, and compassion that would become the hallmarks of her extraordinary life. On July 28, 2026, after a lifetime devoted to faith, family, service, and justice, Robbie peacefully transitioned from this earthly life, leaving a legacy that will continue to inspire generations. From an early age, Robbie understood the dignity and value of hard work. As a young woman, she began working for just 52 cents an hour—an experience that profoundly shaped her lifelong commitment to fairness, equal opportunity, and economic justice. In 1966, Robbie began her career as a production worker on the assembly line at ITE Incorporated, later known as Siemens Energy & Automation. Determined to improve working conditions not only for herself but also for her fellow employees, she joined IBEW Local Union 2127. What began as a desire to make a difference soon evolved into a lifelong calling dedicated to advocating for the rights of workers. As the Civil Rights Movement reshaped America, her passion for equality, justice, and human dignity became the driving force behind her labor activism. Her intelligence, courage, integrity, and steadfast determination quickly earned the admiration and respect of her coworkers, leading to her appointment to the Local Union Negotiating Committee. Amongst, her earliest accomplishments she helped establish a bidding system that ensured equal pay, fair promotions, and greater opportunities for all workers. Throughout the years, she faithfully served her local union in numerous leadership capacities. Her dedication, exceptional leadership, and tireless advocacy culminated in a historic achievement when she became the first African American and the first woman elected Business Manager/President of IBEW Local Union 2127. She faithfully served in that distinguished role for 28 years, championing fairness, strengthening worker protections, cultivating future leaders, and expanding opportunities for generations of working families. Her leadership not only transformed her union but also left an enduring legacy of courage, excellence, and servant leadership. Robbie’s influence extended far beyond the walls of the local union, reaching across the nation and leaving an indelible mark on the labor movement. In September 1974, she joined a courageous group of predominantly African American IBEW convention delegates who founded the Minority Affairs Committee Electrical Workers Minority Caucus (EWMC) that was established to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion within the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. The organization sought to create representation and greater opportunities for minorities at all levels of the IBEW., and future generations of labor leaders.
In 1990, Robbie was elected National President of the Caucus, ushering in a transformative era of visionary leadership and unprecedented growth. Under her direction, the inaugural National Leadership Conference was held in Atlanta, Georgia, on January 19–20, 1991. It was at that landmark meeting that the name of the Caucus was changed to the Electrical Workers Minority Caucus to reflect the inclusionary and progressive stance of the membership as reflected in the newly adopted mission, purpose and goals of the organization which became the foundation of an enduring tradition. The national leadership conference continues each year, bringing together union leaders and members from across USA and Canada. Committed to ensuring that others would have opportunities to lead and succeed, Robbie spearheaded the creation of the EWMC Scholarship Fund, mentoring initiatives, young workers leadership development programs, and national community service projects that continue to empower union members and strengthen communities. She firmly believed that true leadership was measured not only by personal achievement, but by the willingness to lift others. Throughout her life, she generously shared her wisdom, encouragement, and experience, mentoring countless emerging leaders who continue to carry forward her vision. Robbie’s commitment to justice extended well beyond organized labor. She was a tireless advocate for civil rights and civic engagement, dedicating decades to improving the Greater Atlanta community. Working alongside the legendary labor and civil rights leader Rev. James Orange and supporting organizations such as the Martin Luther King Jr. March Committee and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, she tirelessly championed causes that advanced equality and opportunity. Robbie also worked diligently to help elect leaders who would stand for working families, promote economic fairness, and serve historically underserved communities. Whether advocating in the workplace, within her community, or throughout the political arena, she remained steadfast in her belief that lasting change begins with courageous leadership and a commitment to serving others. As Robbie’s “pit bull” reputation, principled leadership and advocacy continued to grow, so did the opportunities to serve. Respected throughout the labor movement and the broader community, she was entrusted with numerous leadership positions at the local, state, and national levels. Her distinguished service included: ● Vice President, A. Philip Randolph Institute ● Trustee, Coalition of Black Trade Unionists ● Vice President, Atlanta Labor Council ● Chairperson, Working Rights Committee for Women ● Chairperson, IBEW International Convention Grievance Committee ● Chairperson, IBEW International Convention Resolutions Committee ● Chairperson, Martin Luther King Jr. March Committee ● Executive Council Member, AFL-CIO
Whether advocating for workers’ rights, championing women, promoting civil rights, or helping shape labor policy, Robbie approached every responsibility with integrity, courage and a commitment to justice. She understood that every position she held represented an opportunity to improve the lives of others, and she fulfilled each role with distinction, wisdom and servant leadership. Robbie’s extraordinary contributions were recognized through numerous prestigious honors and awards, reflecting the profound impact of her life’s work. Among her many accolades were: ● The distinction of becoming the first African American woman to receive the Labor Person of the Year Award (1993) ● The Fannie O’Neal Award ● The James Orange Leadership Award ● Countless recognitions from labor, civic, community and faith organizations honoring her decades of visionary leadership, selfless service, and unwavering dedication to improving the lives of working families and communities. Although deeply humbled by every recognition she received, she never sought accolades or personal acclaim. Her greatest reward was witnessing lives transformed, barriers broken and doors opened for those who would follow. Her legacy is measured not only by the honors she earned, but by the thousands of people she inspired, mentored and empowered along the way.
The Woman Behind the Legacy For all that history will remember, those dearest to her knew the remarkable woman behind the accolades. Affectionately known as “Brown Sugar,” a nickname lovingly given to her by her father, she carried herself with grace, strength, humility, and compassion. Robbie was a devoted member of Greater White Rock Baptist Church, where she faithfully worshipped and served until her transition. She believed that faith without works was incomplete, a conviction she demonstrated daily through a lifetime of selfless service, leadership and love for others. She firmly believed that God ordered her steps and directed the work He had called her to do, and she sought to honor Him through a life of faithful service. While history will forever remember Robbie as a pioneering labor leader, visionary organizer, mentor, and fearless advocate for justice, those who knew and loved her will remember something even
greater. They will remember a loving mother, devoted sister, caring aunt, proud grandmother, faithful friend and the heart of her family. Her wisdom, infectious laughter, generosity, love and bold strength were gifts she shared freely, leaving an immeasurable impact on every life she touched.
Her family remembers a woman whose love was expressed through action. Robbie’s greatest joy was seeing those she loved happy, secure and cared for. She never hesitated to place the needs of others before her own, often making quiet sacrifices that only those closest to her would ever know. Whether offering wise counsel, extending a helping hand, opening her home, or simply showing up when she was needed most, Robbie gave of herself wholeheartedly and without expectation. She was fierce in her convictions and the standards by which she lived, yet beneath that determined exterior was a remarkably tender heart. Those blessed to know her intimately understood that every decision she made, every sacrifice she embraced and every burden she willingly carried was motivated by one enduring desire—that her family, her friends and those she loved would live well, thrive and know they were deeply cherished. To Robbie, love was never measured by words alone; it was demonstrated through service, generosity, protection and presence. She found joy in making certain that everyone around her was cared for, often placing their comfort and happiness above her own. Robbie’s greatest achievement was not the positions she held, but the love she gave so freely and the lives she so faithfully nurtured. That selfless love became the hallmark of her life. Robbie is preceded in death by her father, Jimmy Lott; mother, Gertrude Willams; daughter, Pazetta Lester; brothers, Emory Williams Jr. and Leonard Williams and sister, Marie Grant. She leaves to cherish her loving memories, daughters, Carlene Staples (Carlton), Peryenthia Blye; her devoted siblings, Winston Veal (Robert), Evangeline Starks (Freddie), Richard Williams (Vivian), Addie Williams, Sylvanus Lott (Irma), Ann Lott, David Lott; eight treasured grandchildren, greatgrandchildren; nieces, nephews, beloved relatives, special lifelong friends, and countless union brothers and sisters whose lives are forever enriched. Her work continues through every worker she empowered, every leader she mentored, every life she touched, and every door she helped open. Her legacy lives on within the labor movement, throughout her family and community, and in the hearts of all who were blessed to know and love her. “Some lives are measured by the years they are given. Others are measured by the lives they transform”
THE DASH I read of a man who stood to speak at the funeral of a friend. He referred to the dates on the tombstone from the beginning to the end. He noted first came the date of the birth and spoke the following date with tears. But he said what mattered most of all was the dash between the years. For that dash represents all the time that they spent life on Earth. And now only those who loved them know what that little line is worth. For it matters not how much we own, the cars, the house, the cash. What matters is how we live and love, and how we spend our dash. So, think about this long and hard. Are there things you'd like to change? TeFor you never know how much time is left that can still be rearranged. If we could just slow down enough to consider what's true and real, and always try to understand the way other people feel. Be less quick to anger and show appreciation more, and love the people in our lives like we've never loved before. If we treat each other with respect and more often wear a smile, remembering that this special dash might only last a little while. So, when your eulogy is being read with your life's actions to rehash, would you be proud of the things they say about how you spent your dash?
Pallbearers EWMC Members
Flower Ladies EWMC Members
Interment Forest Lawn Cemetery 5755 Mallory Road College Park, GA 30349
Repast IBEW Local 613 510 Pulliam Street Atlanta, Georgia 30312
Acknowledgements The family of Robbie J. Sparks extends our heartfelt gratitude for your prayers, kindness, love and support during this time of bereavement. No act of compassion was too small, and every gesture of care brought us comfort and strength when we needed it most. Your presence, encouraging words, thoughtful deeds and acts of service have been a true blessing for our family. We will always remember your generosity and the many ways you surrounded us with grace and compassion. Thank you for walking alongside us during this difficult time. May God bless each of you for the kindness you have shown our family. Willie A. Watkins Funeral Home Historic West End Chapel 1003 Ralph David Abernathy Boulevard Atlanta, Georgia 30310 404-758-1731 www. williewatkins.com The K Effect, Print & Design, 678-732-5937