Gary Clark

It is with both heavy hearts and grateful memories that we announce the passing of Gary Durwood Clark, who left us on June 26, 2025, at the age of 74 in Del City, Oklahoma. He lived his life loud, proud, and full of music-and left it just the way he came in: unforgettable.
Born on January 16, 1951, to Tom and Rose Clark in Midwest City, Gary lived a bold, musical, and unforgettable life. He was preceded in death by the love of his life, his wife Roxanne Clark who was his partner in all things; as well as his mother Rose, his son Chris (who he has missed for 31 years), and his brothers Skip and Deni. No doubt they're already tuning up a band in heaven right now.
He is survived by his daughter Jesika Clark, his grandson Deni "Little Bear" Brice (the apple of his eye), his brother John Clark, and a whole extended tribe of family and friends who loved him fiercely, and was fiercely loved back. Gary's home was a second home to many, and his heart was wide open to all. He is beloved dad, bearpaw, uncle, and friend.
A 1969 graduate of Midwest City High School, Gary was an entrepreneur. After learning the ropes in pest control, he and his brother Deni launched Clark's Pest Control in the early 1980s; but business aside, Gary's real gift was music. A natural teacher and born performer, Gary could play a tune on anything with or without strings. As the leader of "Durwood and the Deep Fried Okies" (also known as the Clark Family Circle), he taught many to play, perform, and love music the way he did, on guitar, mandolin, fiddle, banjo, upright bass, spoons, or a jug. That musical legacy now lives on in the next generation.
Gary was the life of the party. He could out-argue anyone, out stand or pace anyone, and if you heard someone yelling over a crowd, it was probably Gary making a point to anyone who was trapped in the corner. He famously claimed to always be on his "second rum and Coke," even if it was his fifth. His quick wit, bold laugh, and larger-than-life energy made every room brighter and louder. He and Roxanne opened their hearts and home to many.
He loved the simple joys: fishing, camping, and Taco Bell runs with Jesika after school. He loved OU football, and he loved coaching and cheering on the sports of every kid he called his own. He took pride in his son's wrestling, and through that became a father figure to many. But his greatest pride was Little Bear, his grandson. Even in his final days, Gary spoke about that plastic bat and how far his Little Bear could hit the ball.
Uncle Gary didn't have many famous quotes-but somehow, he always knew exactly what to say. His wisdom was real, his presence grounding, and his love unconditional.
Jesika shares, "My dad bought me a microphone and made me practice singing 24 hours a day. He believed in me before I ever believed in myself. He loved God, he loved being cool, and he loved people. He was rare, and the world is less without him in it. But I know he'll live forever-in stories, in music, and in every beat of my heart." All services are open to the public. We welcome you to join us in honoring Gary's life, come share your memories, your music, and your love as we celebrate the man who gave so much to all of us.
Services will be rendered by Barnes-Friederich & Pope Funeral Home, 1820 S Douglas Blvd, Midwest City, OK 73130. Visitation will be Tuesday, July 1, 12:00PM – 8:00PM, and Wednesday, July 2, 8:00AM – 8:00PM. A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Philip Neri Catholic Church, 1107 Felix Pl, Midwest City, OK 73110, on Thursday, July 3, 2025 at 10:30 AM.
Following the Mass, Gary will be laid to rest next to Roxanne at Kolb Cemetery, 3706 N Midwest Blvd, Oklahoma City, OK 73141. A small meal and reception gathering will follow the burial back at St. Philip Neri Church.