James Hill Lark

It didn’t take long to realize that James “Jimmy” Lark was destined to embrace music as his life's passion. Born in Tulsa, Oklahoma in 1950 to James and Thelma Lark, accomplished musicians themselves, he showed an early interest in singing and the piano. He convinced his mother to buy a drum set so he and some neighborhood friends could form a group and practice in the den. This group which became The Pretemps would be the first of many musical collaborations.

Jimmy was also very active in the youth and Junior choirs at Greater Union Baptist Church and the Concert Choir at Booker T. Washington High School where he graduated in 1968. Following graduation, Jimmy attended Bishop College in Dallas, Texas where he majored in history and political science. He joined Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity and other campus organizations. His passion for music continued. He was keyboardist for several bands during the ‘70s. Justice of the Peace and T-Byrd’s band were among those. He also played with The Johnny Taylor Band, performed with The Magic Tower Band, The Alpha Stage Band, The Blues Hunter and other groups until his health began to fail. Jimmy was recognized as a talented songwriter and was involved in several collaborations with other artists.

Jimmy had a versatile work life. He served as a Manager for 15 years with the Dallas Housing Authority and worked for the IRS until his retirement in 2017.

Jimmy had a zest for life and many interests outside of music. He loved a great book and intelligent conversation about politics and the news of the day. And who could forget that sometimes wicked sense of humor and the accompanying laughter? He developed an interest in travelling in recent years and still talked about the trip to New York with Constance.

Jimmy leaves behind his son James, his beloved companion Constance Stratford, a sister Patricia Lark Bell, a brother Melvin Lark, a niece Leah Bell, a nephew Dorian Bell, four grandnieces, one grandnephew, and several cousins, relatives and friends. He will be missed.