RICHARD CLARK SR.

Quietly, in the early afternoon of March 17th, the bounds of earth were broken, and God called one of His own home. Richard Clark, a beloved husband, father, and servant of the Lord, was 92 years old. He was born on August 29, 1932, in Rosa, Louisiana, to Alec Clark and Lela Fontenot. His family later moved to Kinder, Louisiana, where Richard worked and matured.

Richard's life was a testament to the words of Proverbs 18:22: "Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing." Indeed, Richard found a good thing in Nelrene Johnson, whom he married on June 14, 1958. Their love story began that day and lasted for 66 years, with their shared faith serving as the foundation. Richard's pastor officiated their wedding, and they became devoted members of New Light Baptist Church. Deacon Clark served faithfully at New Light under the leadership of Rev. Cuby, Rev. Stevens, and Rev. Isiah Thibodeaux, Pastor Emeritus. He was known for his early morning preparations for communion Sundays, where he would start a mouth-watering breakfast for the congregation. Whether it was cleaning the church or using his carpentry skills to maintain the building, Deacon Clark's dedication to service was unwavering.

Richard worked for 32 years at Gulf States Utility Company as a Utility Line Technician, taking pride in his work and mentoring younger men along the way. His commitment to his job not only provided for his family but also built lasting friendships that would endure for years.

Family was central to Richard's heart, and he was dedicated to ensuring his loved ones felt grounded in faith and love. He not only provided a home for his children but also opened his doors to family members in need, offering them the stability of a

loving home. When he was promoted to grandfather, we named them G-Pop and G-mom. G-Pop found immense joy in his role. He cherished the times spent with his grandkids, often taking them in his red wagon for a ride and teaching them the art of playing dominoes – a skill he took great joy in sharing.

One of Richard's greatest pleasures was rabbit hunting. As soon as the crisp fall air arrived, he and his sons would eagerly plan their Saturday trips. He especially treasured the moments when his grandsons could join in the fun. In addition to hunting, Richard was a master at barbecuing. He took great care of smoking meat to perfection, ensuring that his family and friends always enjoyed delicious meals and treats. It was a joy to hear G-pop singing and humming around the house. You could often hear him singing, "Oh Lordy, Lordy, Lordy, I thank you and "Jesus is on the Main Line call him up and tell him what you want".

His joy only grew when great-grandchildren came into his life. The sound of their laughter and the sight of them playing with him brought him boundless happiness, filling his heart with love.

Twelve years ago, Richard suffered a stroke, and it was during this challenging time that the family came together in prayer, patience, and perseverance. Despite the difficulties, Richard remained steadfast in his faith, quoting scriptures each night as he meditated. Proverbs 23:7 and Jeremiah 17:14 were his guiding verses: "For as he thinks in his heart, so is he: Eat and drink, saith he to thee; But his heart is not with thee." And "Heal me, O LORD, and I shall be healed; Save me, and I shall be saved, For You are my praise."

Richard was preceded in death by his brothers Ezekiel Edwards and Louis Chambers, as well as his grandson Nicholas H. Clark.

Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife, Nelrene Clark; children Richard Jr. (Carla), Lesia Chantlin (Gregory), Alex Wayne, and Rhonda Jeanne Mudd (Kenneth); grandchildren Ashley, Jeanne, Al Lewis, Angelica, Sydney, Katie; three great-grandchildren.