John Clarkson III

John Gorman Clarkson III COLUMBIA - John Gorman Clarkson III, 62, passed away peacefully on September 18, 2017. Born December 31, 1954 in Batesburg, S.C., John was the son of Mary Frances Taylor Clarkson of Columbia and the late Rev. John Gorman Clarkson, Jr. John found a passion for flying in his teenage years when his family moved to Jamaica, and after attending the University of the West Indies, he pursued a career as a pilot. He spent nearly four decades flying professionally, retiring as a captain with American Airlines. Much like his father, John became a servant of his community and Christ, working for two churches in Lower Richland and serving in a variety leadership positions within the Episcopal Diocese of Upper South Carolina. John was fondly known to his family and friends as a teacher, mentor, and tinker. He was generous, always sharing his knowledge to help others and create a positive impact. He will truly be missed not only his presence, but his passion, his energy, and his love of life. John is survived by his wife, Lisa Carros Clarkson; seven children, John Gorman Clarkson IV (Kelly) of Columbia, Dr. Stephen Arthur Clarkson (Erin) of Birmingham, Katie Amalia Clarkson (Tawhid) of Columbia, Rebekah Tafel Alden (Todd) of New York City, Jennifer Tafel (Jay) of Columbia, Thomas Edward Tafel (Anne Griffin) of Columbia, and Nicklos Bard Tafel of New York City; grandsons, Callum Clarkson and Ilyas Rahman; siblings, Mary White (Edwin), Martha Lee (Peter) and Joseph Clarkson (Sandee); and numerous aunts, cousins, nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held Saturday, September 23, at 10:30 a.m. at St. John's Episcopal Church, Congaree, followed by a luncheon reception. Dunbar Funeral Home, Devine Street Chapel, is assisting the family. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. John's Episcopal Church, Congaree, 1151 Elm Savannah Road, Hopkins, SC, 29065, or to The Hope Lodge of Charleston (American Cancer Society), 269 Calhoun Street, Charleston, SC, 29401. Please sign the online guestbook at www.dunbarfunerals.com.