David Earl Clark, Jr.

On November 1, 2025, David Earl Clark, Jr. slipped away peacefully in Cedar Park, TX, at the age of 92. Born on September 4, 1933, in Austin, TX, to David Earl Clark, Sr. and Dorothy Hulbirt Clark, David lived his life with quiet dignity, steady devotion, and a gentle humor that softened the world around him.

He is lovingly remembered by his daughter, Jackie Clark Spencer of Cedar Park, TX; her children, Justin Clark Spencer and wife Jenay of Troy, MO, and Madison Spencer Robertson and husband Jesse of Cedar Park, TX. His great-granddaughters — Bella Rae, Leila Olivia, and Willa Grace — filled his later years with joy, curiosity, and a new kind of tenderness that only great-grandparents come to know.

David also cherished his blended family. He is survived by his stepdaughter, Donna Ann Lawson, and her husband Timothy H. Painschab of Corpus Christi, TX, and their son Timothy G. Painschab; and by his stepson Steven Dean Lawson, his wife Lauren of Chattanooga, TN, their daughter Chelsea Lawson Moore, her husband Ben, and their daughters Matilda and Magnolia.

He leaves behind his sister, Marilyn Polk, of McKinney, TX, and her children — Kimberly Ann Kempton and husband Steve, and Stephen Hooper and wife Deborah — whose families remained lovingly connected to him throughout his life.

A proud graduate of Texas A&M University, Class of 1955, David carried the Aggie spirit with him always. He served honorably in the United States Army before building a long and varied career as a landman. He later expanded into real estate and even dipped his boots into the cattle business — always approaching new ventures with curiosity, humility, and a steady sense of purpose.

In the early 1960s, David married Shirley Laverne Dillon, and together they welcomed two daughters. His devotion to their daughter Kirsten, who had special needs, was steadfast and tender; he cared for her with unwavering love until her passing in 2014.

In 1979, David married Judith “Judy” Gary Lawson, and together they created a blended family rich with love, laughter, and connection. As partners in life for 45 years, David and Judy not only shared their home and their hearts — they also shared their time in service, volunteering countless hours at The Settlement Home for Children in Austin, a cause deeply meaningful to them both.

David was also an avid tennis player who spent many years on the court. Whether playing casually with friends or in local matches, he loved the rhythm of the game, the camaraderie, and the simple joy of movement. Tennis was both exercise and companionship — one of the quiet pleasures that wove through his life.

Later, David and Judy moved from Corpus Christi to Austin to be closer to the grandchildren and great-grandchildren who anchored their joy. Their first great-grandchild, Bella, became part of their daily rhythm — after-school pickups, playful afternoons, and McDonald’s trips that turned into treasured memories.

Though soft-spoken, David possessed a sharp, mischievous sense of humor that delighted those who knew him. His kindness was consistent, his presence steady, and his love for his family deep and enduring. Like Judy, he cherished having everyone together — the sounds of laughter, conversation, and joyful chaos were among his greatest comforts.

A Celebration of Life for David and his beloved wife, Judith Ann Gary Clark, will be held April 4, 2026, at 2 p.m. at Remembrance Memorial Gardens at Riverbend in Austin, TX.