Roll Call Tribute

Harold Clonce Clark, Jr.
August 31, 1938 – March 28, 2022

Harold C. Clark, Jr. - A Celebration of Life

Harold Clonce Clark Jr., age 83, of Waxahachie, Texas passed away on Monday, March 28, 2022. Harold was born August 31, 1938.

Harold C. Clark, Jr. was born on August 31, 1938, in Gladewater, Texas, to Harold C. Clark and Margaret Sue, the first of five children. Harold had fond memories of his childhood, with siblings Roger, Claudette, Suzanne, and Jayne enjoying drive-in movies and fried chicken on Sunday evenings, or getting excited when the train was bringing the circus to town. He was encouraged to pursue his interests, which included flying with his dad in a tandem two-seater plane, and competitively racing cars.

After graduating from Odessa High School in 1957, Harold attended college at Howard Payne in Brownwood. It was there that he met Anne Watts, who would become his life partner for the next 62 years. Soon after they were married, he received a letter from Uncle Sam, so he joined the US Navy and they moved to Norfolk, Virginia. After serving four years, he was honorably discharged as Radioman RM2. He, Anne, and two daughters, Debbie and Natalie, returned home to Texas. He attended Texas A&M University and earned a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 1969. The family moved to Irving, where he opened a private practice. In addition to small animals, he treated wild animals, including a one-eyed red-tailed hawk, a kinkajou, and the girls’ favorite, Stinky Joe the skunk. He also provided medical services to the local Humane Society. These years were spent raising a family, building his practice, and developing newly discovered interests, such as photography, oil painting, and bicycle racing.

After the girls grew up and left home, he made the decision to embark on a second career, teaching science at Ferris High School. Later he transferred to Dunaway Elementary School in Waxahachie, where Anne also taught. During these years he welcomed his grandchildren, Natalie’s daughter, LeeAnne, and Lance and Debbie’s sons, Adam and Josh. Continuing his self-education, he revived his interest in ham radio, began writing short stories and poetry, and became an enthusiastic member of the community theater. When Harold and Anne decided to retire, they bought a 31-foot Airstream trailer, and set out to explore the U.S., eventually visiting all 50 states.

Four great-grandsons were added to the family. Adam and Jess’ sons, Lincoln and Atlas Brooks; and LeeAnne and Adam’s sons, Jack and Grant Williamson. Harold’s curious nature and love for learning was renewed by looking at the world through their eyes and reliving the sense of wonder that the young innately have. He was an avid collector and reader of books, an active member of several writing groups, and regularly attended poetry workshops. He enjoyed music, and especially loved being a part of the senior choir at his church.

Harold was kind, with a giving heart, and believed we should all strive to make a difference. He continually looked for ways to help those around him, and those far away. Each year he donated to numerous charities, both local and global ministries. Two of his favorite charities were World Vision and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. He felt privileged to be able to help the children, knowing that they are our future.

How do you sum up the life of a beloved husband, father, grandpa, and great-grandpa in a few short words? In his many writings, musings, and poems, he left us with some of his thoughts on life.

In his own words:

“I have come to believe through 80 plus years of experience that love and hate cannot live in the same heart. Hatred blocks the door to love, but grace invites it in.”

“On a shelf in my office is a picture of my daughter and me sitting on a rock in Colorado, taken more than 50 years ago. We were on a ten day hiking trip with a group of girl scouts and I was along as a sponsor. One memory the picture brings to mind is an experience called solo. In this activity we were separated and moved to areas where we could not see each other nor any signs of human life…I felt His grace that day on the mountain and feel it more today. … Words alone cannot express the love and appreciation we feel for the myriad blessings we see around us, so He gave us a greater gift. The gift of music helps us fill the air with praises. Even if you cannot sing a note or play any instrument, you can lift your hands in acclamation and send it heavenward for His ears to hear.”

The loss of Harold has left a wound on our hearts. We miss his gentle spirit, his humor, his voice. And even though we would rather have him back with us, we know he believed in God’s promise. Harold loved his family and friends; he loved his country, his church, and he loved his God. And we know he is singing tenor in God’s heavenly choir today.

A celebration of life for Harold will be held Saturday, April 30, 2022 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at First Baptist Church in Waxahachie, 450 US-287 BYP, Waxachie, TX 75165.