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.