William Albert Clark

William Albert Clark, a cherished father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on November 23, 2024, due to a recent illness. Born on June 16, 1932, in Clarksville, Arkansas, William's life was a rich tapestry woven with the values of hard work, family devotion, and a faith that guided him through 92 remarkable years. He departed this life in Dothan, Alabama, leaving a legacy of love and integrity that will be forever remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing him.

William served his country with honor as a radio operator aboard a mine sweeper in the Korean War after enlisting in the US Navy at the tender age of 17. His transition to civilian life saw him moving to Long Beach, California, where he demonstrated his strong work ethic as a warehouse manager, a local truck driver, and later as a teamster in trucking management. Additionally, he took pride in his role as a butcher at Safeway, showcasing his versatility and dedication to providing for his family in every role he undertook.

His life outside of work was equally rich, filled with the activities he loved and shared with his family. William's presence at his children's and grandchildren's sporting events was a constant, his unwavering support a testament to his dedication as a father and grandfather. A lover of the outdoors, he found joy in tending to his yards, riding dirt bikes, and restoring old cars—a hobby that showcased his handy nature. William's passion for drag strip racing and his skill in remodeling the houses they lived in spoke volumes about his ability to shape and improve his surroundings, just as he did with the lives he touched.

William's love for animals was evident throughout his life, from the days of raccoon hunting on the family farm to watching birds and squirrels play in his yard in his later years. His stories of family pets, especially his dog and horse from boyhood, were shared with warmth and affection. Even in his final days, William's independence shone through, as he continued to drive his truck until his recent hospitalization. His commitment to fitness remained strong as a member of Crunch Fitness Club, and he moved with intention, first from Arkansas to California, then to Washington, to be near his daughter and grandchildren, and finally settling in Dothan, Alabama, to be near his son and grandchildren.

Family was the cornerstone of William's life. He valued the daily calls with his 94-year-old brother, Loyal, and maintained close relationships with his high school and church friends. He was a father to Tracey McDaniel (Jason Pearce), Paul Clark and Marti Renojo. His grandchildren—Alex, Amber, Tyler, Dean, Erin, Janna, Brittney, and Stephanie—and great-grandchildren—Boston, Emmalyn, Addison, Ameila, Jackson, and James—brought him immense joy and pride. William was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 59 years, Linda Sue Clark, his great-grandson, Kent, his parents, Roy and Nora Clark, and his siblings, Cecil, Melvin, Pauline, and Irene.

A man of faith, William found solace and community at the Church of Christ that meets on Honeysuckle Road, where he worshipped and formed lasting bonds with his church family. Described as courageous, handy, and faith-filled, he lived a life that echoed the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson, "Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail."

A celebration of William's inspiring life will be held at 12 pm on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at Sunset Funeral Home Chapel with Stuart Tullis officiating. Friends and family will gather to share memories from 11 am until the time of service. William will be laid to rest in Sunset Memorial Park, alongside his loving wife, Linda Sue Clark, where they will be reunited for eternity. William Albert Clark's journey on earth may have ended, but his spirit and the path he blazed will continue to guide us forevermore.