Car just died, no spark even after replacment

I have a 92 Escort GT, 1.8 DOHC, 5 speed, 173,000 miles. Never had ANY kind of problem. The other day it just died, no warning, nothing. In fact it was so nothing, it took me a few seconds to realize the car wasn't accelerating. I couldn't get it restarted. Didn't know about you guys, yet, so I checked the repair guides/troubleshooting at AutoZone. Com, and the list was extensive. Was needing to replace the battery anyway. Brand spanking new battery, still no go. Checked a bit further. No spark. It's not the starter, because it turns over, it just won't catch. I was told it had to be 1 of 3 things. Rotor control module, coil, or ignition control module. I am on a shoestring budget, but I replaced the first two, still no spark. I have to special order the ICM, 5-7 days, and having no other transportation, I bought one used ( while waiting), still, no spark. I realize the used ICM might not be any good, but with 3 kids, etc.I'm starting to hyperventilate here. Even after several attempts to start, however, I don't smell fuel. I am assuming the fuel pump is ok. But since I couldn't hear it running before, not hearing it now isn't odd. But the way it acts when I try to start it is similar to trying to start a car that's bone dry. But that doesn't explain there being no spark. My plugs are less than 1 month old, I do have gas in the car. Please help. Becoming desperate!?