In 2005, Sparkman began part-time work with the United States Census Bureau, and studied education with Western Governors University, an online college.

In 2007, after receiving medical treatment for an ingrown toe nail, Sparkman's doctor identified a cyst, which led to his diagnosis of Stage-3 non-Hodgkin's lymphoma cancer.

He continued teaching while receiving chemotherapy treatments from November 2007 to March 2008, during which time he completed his academic coursework, and was invited to speak at the commencement ceremony at Western Governors University in Salt Lake City, Utah.

[6][7] On September 12, 2009, Sparkman's body was discovered[8] by attendees of a family reunion who had been paying a visit to Hoskins Cemetery[9] in rural Clay County, Kentucky, within Daniel Boone National Forest.

[11] Sparkman was reportedly found with a rope around his neck, tied to a tree while in contact with the ground, wearing only socks, and with the word "fed" written on his chest[8] in felt-tip marker.

According to reports, Sparkman, who had previously battled non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, was suspected to have believed his cancer had returned, and had taken out life insurance policies totalling $600,000[22] just prior to his death.

[5] Because of Sparkman's status as a Federal Census Bureau worker, in addition to the word “fed” written on his body, the incident drew national attention.

[20] However, an Associated Press report stated the area “[had] a reputation for mistrusting government, dating back to the days of moonshiners and 'revenuers,'”[27] and that it is a top marijuana producer,[10] where federal agents have held drug and corruption raids numerous times.

Among those locally convicted for drug and corruption charges were: a former mayor, former city councilmen, an assistant police chief, a county clerk, a magistrate, and an election commissioner.

[28] The Los Angeles Times reported that in the absence of public findings by investigators, some writers in the liberal blogosphere concluded that the death was the result of anti-government rhetoric during the presidency of Barack Obama.