It is with great sadness that the family of Jerry Smith Clark announce his peaceful passing on Wednesday, March 15, 2023, at the age of 87. The youngest of 13 children, he was preceded in death by his parents, six brothers, six sisters, and his son, Brian Wesley Clark.
Jerry will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 65 years, Lois Gryder Clark, his daughter Karen Clark Caruso (Carlton) of Valdese, and daughter-in-law Linda Graham Clark of Goose Creek, SC. He will also be remembered and greatly missed by his granddaughters Kari Clark (Connor Hudgins) of Gloucester, VA, and Kaitlin Clark, USAF, Qatar, as well as, great grandchildren Aiden Nix, Bryce Nix, and Preston Hudgins, along with a host of family and friends.
Jerry retired from the United States Army after 20 years of distinguished service. Among the awards and metals he earned during his service are the Bronze Star Metal, Army Commendation Metal (2), Vietnam Campaign Metal, Vietnam Service Metal with three bronze service stars, Good Conduct Metal, National Defense Service Metal with oak leaf cluster, and Army Occupation Metal (Germany). He served tours of duty in Korea, Vietnam, Germany (3), and at various bases in the US. Following his retirement Jerry continued to serve by volunteering as a driver for the DAV Transportation Network and with Honor Guards from Caldwell, Burke, and Alexander counties.
Officiated by Rev. Leah Epps, a memorial service will be held on Tuesday, March 21, at 2:00 p.m. at Greenway Presbyterian Church, Lenoir, NC, where he was a member. Military rites will follow the service at the church’s columbarium. A reception for family and friends will take place afterward in the Family Life Center at the church.
The family respectfully asks that memorial donations be made to Fisher House Foundation, 111 Rockville Pike, Pikeville, MD 20805-5168.
Its certainly been different without him but in the 14 years i knew him he was a fun loving person who cared for everyone around, even from a young age i enjoyed hearing his story’s about Vietnam and his childhood, im truly gonna miss you great papa.
Aiden Nix- great grandson.
My deepest thoughts and prayers are with you.
Uncle Jerry was a great man and very passionate about life and would always make you laugh. He was a hero, as he served in the military until he retired and then continued his service to the veterans through the DAV He is the last of my Mama’s brothers and sisters, which is difficult to wrap my head around, You will be missed by all of those left here to keep your memory. I love you.
Jerry was truly a selfless person. I honestly think only God knows the depth of Jerry’s giving heart. We were truly blessed and honored to have him as a brother n law. No one can ever replace his soft, gentle presence, and he will truly be missed.
Jerry was truly a selfless person. I honestly think only God knows the depth of Jerry’s giving heart. We were truly blessed and honored to have him as a brother n law. No one can ever replace his soft, gentle presence, and will truly be missed.
Our deepest sympathies to his wife, daughter and family from Joe and Genie Enos
My deepest sympathies to you Lois, and the rest of your family. Jerry was a wonderful person and I feel honored to have known him and been a guest in your home so many times. I especially loved his sense of humor and passionate stance on various topics. May God send you abundant comfort during this difficult time. Love , Cheri.
I am very saddened to learn of the passing of Jerry. I was privileged to spend some time with him in July. I admired him very much for his military service, and his devotion to God. He is the last surviving member of his siblings. He and Lois visited us several times in California, and I have been a guest in his home many times. He will be greatly missed!!!
Uncle Jerry and l didn’t really get to know each other until the last 15 years or so. We did bond over the same interests. I enjoyed his company. I enjoyed his sense of humor. I will miss him. He was my favorite Fender Lizard.