Harold Clarke Sr

Harold Clarke, Sr., 60 of Bridgeport, CT passed away on Friday, January 17, 2025. He was born October 31, 1964 in Bridgeport to the late Ruthe Gregory Clarke and Haywood Day Clarke, Sr. Harold was educated in the Bridgeport public schools and graduated from Warren Harding High School in 1983. Harold played bugle in the high school band and performed with the Bengal Lancers and world champion Garfield Cadets Drum and Bugle Corps.
After high school, Harold worked for UPS before joining the Bridgeport Fire Department in 1988 per his mother's recommendation. During his tenure at the fire department, he enrolled in Norwalk Community College where he earned his degree and advanced his career in the Bridgeport Fire Department from Firefighter, to Lieutenant, then Captain, and finally, Assistant Fire Chief.
He was also an active member of the Bridgeport Firebirds where he played an integral role in elevating dozens of firefighters of color to be promoted. His knowledge and commitment to that cause proved to be invaluable, and he significantly contributed to recruitment and employee retention. The department and many individuals benefited immeasurably from his efforts. Harold also assisted with numerous community outreach programs, providing services, as well as educating organizations on fire safety.
Harold was married to Andrea Bynoe and their union was blessed with two children which he loved deeply, Harold Clarke, Jr. and Elizabeth "Liz" Clarke. Harold enjoyed spending time at his lake home and traveling internationally. He was also that fun and energetic uncle who always made time for his many nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.
Harold was a dependable, compassionate, and generous individual. Whether it was being there in times of need, offering his time and energy to help others, or simply bringing joy and laughter to those around him, consistently displayed the values of a good-hearted person. Harold was a devoted family man, a selfless father, brother, and friend who extended his time and generosity unprompted. These attributes extended throughout his career as a firefighter; as a volunteer at Ground Zero during the September 11 attacks; at the Children's Burn Camp which was an annual event where he aided injured children; also, as a volunteer at various emergency occurrences alongside fellow firefighters. Harold was also instrumental in the implementation of the Bridgeport Fire Safety Program, installing fire detectors in the Bridgeport community, and providing safety programs in the Bridgeport Public Schools and other community events.
Left to cherish his memory are his children Harold Dale Clarke, Jr. and Elizabeth Ann Clarke; siblings: Beth Ann Suggs of Ventura, CA, Ruth Clarke-Roselle (Lloyd) of Charlotte, NC, Kenton Clarke of Fairfield, CT, Steven Clarke (Rosie) of Stratford, CT, Kathleen Graham(Ronald) of Charlotte, NC, George Clarke of West Palm Beach, FL, Cynthia Clarke of Bridgeport, CT, Emma Clarke-Lawson (John) of Bridgeport, CT, David Clarke (Marlene) of Monroe, CT; former spouse, Andrea Bynoe; and in-laws; Erica Barnard (Steve), Curtina Alexander; in addition to many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and colleagues. He is predeceased by his brothers, Haywood Day Clarke, Jr. and Peter Clarke.