David Mercer Clark

David Mercer Clark "Dave" passed away on Tuesday April 12, 2022 after an illness of 3 months. He was born on May 11, 1943 in McRae Georgia to John and Eloise Mercer Clark. He grew up in Manchester Georgia attended Manchester High School, was captain of the football team, excelled on the debate team, Made many lasting friends from the 5th Street neighborhood. Last year he attended his 60th classreunion.
Dave received a football scholarship to UT, then transferred to Millsaps College in Jackson, MS when the coach was hired to go to Millsaps. He graduated with a bachelor's degree in Business Administration/ Economics. After college he worked for W.T. Grant in Atlanta and Virginia, then back to Atlanta to work for West Building Materials another move took the family to Gulfport, MS. A final move brought them to Valdosta in 1975.
He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Stella Mingea Clark, his son Daniel Clark and wife Kim, his daughter Jennifer Singleton and husband David. He has four wonderful Granddaughters, Mackenzie and Reagan Clark, Raini and Phoebe Singleton. He leaves to mourn his loving nieces Dona, Joy, Josephine, his nephew John, and their spouses, his SIL Laura Clark and so many very special friends too many to name but dear to his heart.
He is preceded in death by his parents, his son Michael Clark, and his identical twin brother John Clark.
A wonderful and influential man devoted to a life of servant leadership. Dave was the general manager of Mackey lumber for 38 years. He was past Chairman of the LBOE, he organized cookouts with the Menin Blue and he provided food to needy families through Jamming with Jesus with Stella and special friend Marge. He was an avid fisherman, a cat/dog lover, a reader, and a respected poker player. During the last 45 years Dave has been President of the LHS Touchdown Club (he originated the TD scholarship), a member of the Valdosta Homebuilders Association, a Boy Scout Troop leader, a little League ball coach, an Elk's Lodge member, a Mason in the Lakeland Lodge and a member of many other social and community groups. He was a member of Christ Episcopal Church in Valdosta, GA for over 45 years serving on several committees related to the future of the Church and Honey Creek. He organized to build a Habitat House in 24 hours and dedicated it in memory of his son, Michael.
Fiercely loyal to his family and friends, Dave loved everyone with his whole being. He was someone who tried to make the world a better place right to the very end of his life. A kind and gentle soul, Dave was loved dearly by all who knew him. His legacy is one of kindness, loyalty and generosity that will live in all who were blessed to have known him.
A memorial service will be held at Christ Episcopal Church (1521N. Patterson St) in Valdosta GA on Saturday April 23, 2022 at 2:00 pm. The Reverend Jim Elliott will officiate. Interment will be in the church memorial garden. A reception will follow.
In lieu of flowers the family has requested donations to the Michael Clark Scholarship Fund at Christ Episcopal Church.