Clarence Earl Hand

Clarence Earl Hand, born October 24, 1932 in Bloomsbury, NJ, departed this life July 21, 2024, in Williamsburg, VA. The son of Norman and Alice Hand, Clarence grew up in Flemington, NJ, where he stumbled on his first great love - harness horse racing. Racing became his life's work and his great passion. While serving in the Air Force in the 1950s, Clarence was stationed in Idaho where he stumbled on his second great love, Barbara Burton, who became his wife of 68 years. When they married in 1956, Barbara became his first love (although the horses were never far behind). Clarence and Barbara lived a full life together, raising a family and traveling to race tracks. Later in life they spent time traveling to see what they both thought of as "this great country of ours." Clarence is remembered as a big, funny, character of a man - devoted to his family and his horses. Also known as Handy, Abe, and Mr. Wonderful, Clarence was many things to many people - a good friend, a loving family man, and a jokester. Clarence is preceded in death by his parents, Norman and Alice; and his two siblings, Norman and Elaine. Clarence is survived by his wife, Barbara; his three children, Terry Steffen (Mitch), Jude (Robin Sesan) Hand, and Ken (Cindy) Hand; as well as five grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind a number of nieces and nephews and cousins and friends. For each of those left behind he also leaves a story or moment of laughter, hi-jinx, caring, helpfulness, and most importantly love. He will be missed. Messages to the family can be shared at www.NelsenWilliamsburg.com.