Joni M. Sparrow, 54, of Utica, passed away Sunday, December 29, 2013 at Faxton-St. Luke's Healthcare Center, New Hartford. Joni was born on September 2, 1959, in Utica, the daughter of Wilton and Dolores (Berrie) Jones. She was raised and educated locally. On May 2, 1980, Joni married Michael Sparrow in Utica. She had been employed with Wal-Mart in North Utica, and then with Daylight Donuts in Yorkville. Joni enjoyed taking the "Bingo Bus" to the casino on Friday nights; card nights with her family; and especially loved spending time with her grandchildren. Joni is survived by her husband, Michael Sparrow, Utica; three daughters, Cortney Sparrow (& Billy Thompson), Utica, Candice Sparrow (& Michael Rios), Yorkville, Brittany Sparrow (& Michael Walawender), Utica; her cherished grandchildren, Anthony, Jordan, and Baby Boy-to-be Walawender, Leah True, Micheal Thompson, Jason, Jr. and Jayana Bouse, and Briana Rios; five sisters, Wendy Kirley, MI, Lynda Rocker (& Berney Shorey), Steuben, Terry (& Gerald) Atwell, Sauquoit, Cheryl (& George) David, Utica, Tammy (& Jeff) Gilmore, Utica; three brothers, Alan (& Debbie) Jones, Whitesboro, Dean (& Pamela) Jones, Deerfield, Greg (& Colleen) Jones, Utica. She is also survived by her feline companions and best friends, Lucky & Baby. Joni is predeceased by a brother, Junior Jones, a sister, Penny Herr, and a nephew, Jason Liness. Relatives and friends are invited to call at the Heintz Funeral Home, 1517 Whitesboro St., Utica, Thursday evening, from 4 - 7 pm. Her funeral and interment in Forest Hill Cemetery, Utica, will be held privately.