Clarkie was known to many by his middle name, Don. He was a Dallas native and long-time resident of Addison, TX. Don grew up in Oak Cliff and was a member of Brandon Ave. Methodist Church. Don’s involvement at Brandon Ave., through the youth programs, mentors and playing baseball for the church, was the foundation of his Christian faith. Don’s love for sports and coaching began at this time as well. He graduated from Sunset High School in January of 1956. Don felt led by the Lord to pursue a vocation in education. He received his B.A. and M. Ed. from East Texas State University (Texas A & M University-Commerce) and later earned his Ph.D. in Education in 1976 from Nova University in Florida. He truly had a calling and a passion for educating and guiding children.
Don began his career with the Dallas Independent School District in 1960 as a teacher. In 1963, he began teaching at Daniel Webster Elementary School. His time spent coaching football at Webster held a special place in his heart. He continued teaching and coaching at Spence Junior High and Sunset High School. His career with DISD advanced with him soon becoming an assistant principal and eventually a principal. He was selected by DISD to pursue advanced education training leading to his doctorate. He served as principal at Stevens Park Elementary School for 25 years. He completed his career as principal at Sudie Williams Elementary School.He retired from DISD in 2002 after 42 years of service. Don continued working after retirement as a substitute principal for DISD and with D & L Entertainment.
By far, the most important thing to Don was his family. He was blessed with a close-knit immediate and extended family. There was always an abundance of love and laughter during times spent together. He loved his wife, Sandra, dearly having just celebrated 61 years of marriage on January 25. They were blessed by three wonderful children and four beautiful granddaughters. Don was happiest spending time with each of them. Some of his favorite things were music of all kinds, western movies, watching sports, traveling, and cruises with Sandra and their friends. Don especially loved a family gathering that included a good meal! He loved playing golf. He enjoyed playing with friends Richard Cox, Jack London and Joe Green. He valued their friendship and camaraderie. He played until his health kept him from swinging his 3 wood. Don recently told Sandra that he had lived a happy and fulfilled life.
Indeed, Don lived a blessed life full of joy, peace and love. He was a man of faith, loyal, respected and trusted. Our husband, father and papa will be deeply missed and always remembered. We will continue to honor his legacy by living our lives to the fullest.
Don and his family were members of Walnut Hill United Methodist Church for many years where he and Sandra served on the Education Work Area Committee. He and Sandra have been members of Prestonwood Baptist Church since 2005.
Don was preceded in death by his parents Roy Arthur Clark and Hazel Bell Wilson Clark. He is survived by his wife, Sandra Baker Clark and his three children, Kimberly Clark Flabiano (Brandon), Kelly Clark Bennett (Scott) and Collin Andrew Clark (Joanna); four granddaughters, Emily Flabiano, Olivia Flabiano, Peyton Flabiano and Caroline Bennett; his brother, Buck Clark (Linda) and many other family members.
A Celebration of Life service will be held Monday, March 4, 2024 at 10:00am at Prestonwood Baptist Church in the Chapel, 6801 W. Park Blvd., Plano, TX 75093. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation: http://parkinson.org/
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