Marion Marilyn Clark

Marion M. (Chase) Clark, a remarkable woman of kindness, grit, and timeless style, passed away peacefully on December 13, 2024, at the age of 95. Born on July 9, 1929, to Edith Bell Chase and Josiah Chase, Marion entered a world that underestimated her — but it didn’t stand a chance against her determination and wit.

The youngest of her siblings — Edith, Randolph, Marjorie, and Ventelina — all of whom preceded her in death, Marion grew up in multicultural Cambridge. She often shared stories of friendship, community, and the challenges of her upbringing, painting a picture of resilience and strength. Marion carried this lively spirit into her own family, creating a legacy of laughter, love, and perseverance. She married the love of her life, Vernon S. Clark, with whom she shared countless adventures until his passing. Together, they raised three children: Lynette Clark, who preceded her in death, Nancy Board Clark (Marcus), and Wayne Clark (Carmen).

Marion also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren Jamil Clark, Assad Clark (Nikiya), Mika Clark Tupy, and Marcus Rocha (Elana); great-grandchildren Kai Tupy (with her father Stephen), Sarah Rocha, Aiden Jelani Clark, and Noemi Clark; a host of nieces and nephews, including Zakia, Wendy, Renee, Samira, Latifa, Louise, Scott, David, Monamma, Theodore, Robert, Judy, Sherri; and extended family who adored her deeply.

Marion was a kind and fierce trailblazer, born in an era when women’s roles were largely confined to the home. Yet, she boldly forged her own path, confronting both racism and sexism with a grace that was anything but submissive. She was a fashionista long before the term existed, with a wardrobe that turned heads and a presence that commanded respect.

Marion possessed a wisdom that went beyond her years. She had the rare skill of staying out of family messes, ensuring she never alienated anyone. She was sweet, witty, and loving, creating a safe space for everyone in her life.

Her kitchen was her kingdom, and her peach cobbler was her crown jewel. Family members have been known to spar for the last slice, a testament to her culinary genius. Marion’s humor was warm yet sharp, and her wit stayed intact even as her memory began to fade. In her later years, she often reminisced about the comforting tastes and memories of her Bajan heritage, recalling dishes like cou-cou, which she credited as part of her long, healthy life.

Marion aged like fine wine — warm, vibrant, and full of stories worth savoring. She left a lasting impression on everyone who had the honor of knowing her, balancing a fiery spirit with the tenderness of a woman who truly cared.

A celebration of Marion’s extraordinary life will be held on Sunday, December 29, at 1:00 PM at St. Elizabeth's Episcopal Church, 1 Morse Road, Sudbury, MA 01776. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the American Brain Foundation (https://www.americanbrainfoundation.org/) in Marion Clark's name.

Marion’s life reminds us to persevere with dignity, fight for what matters, and always, always bake from scratch. Her presence will be sorely missed but lovingly remembered — especially whenever someone attempts (and inevitably fails) to replicate her peach cobbler.