Jean Cantrell Clark

Jean Cantrell Clark passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Thursday, February 12, 2026, in McDonough, GA. Born in Rockmart, GA, on August 6, 1939, to the late Henry A. and Edna A. Cantrell, Jean graduated from Rockmart High School in 1957. During her high school years, she shared her musical talents by singing with The Sonshine Girls. She was preceded in death by her brother, Paul Cantrell; her sister, Betty Barrett; and her grandson, Zachary Clark.

In 1958, Jean married the love of her life, Marion Clark, whom she met in Rome, GA. The couple moved to Atlanta and began their family with the birth of their daughter, Kendall, in 1960, followed by their son, Marc, in 1964. Jean's professional life was marked by her dedication to her community and her work. She worked for the Sears & Roebuck Company before becoming a beloved school bus driver for Clayton County Schools in Forest Park, GA. Known affectionately as "Mrs. Jean," she made a lasting impact on the lives of the children who rode her bus. She later worked for neurosurgeon Dr. Fred Achecar in Riverdale and concluded her career with 16 years as a worker's compensation analyst for Delta Airlines, from which she retired in 2005.

Jean was a woman of many passions and a deep, abiding faith. As members of Salem Baptist Church in McDonough, she and Marion were active in their Sunday School class and enjoyed annual trips with the Senior Adults. Jean was exceptionally creative, possessing a "green thumb" for flowers and a talent for painting and sewing. A gifted musician, she played the organ and piano and sang in the church choir. Following retirement, she and Marion spent years traveling across the United States, making cherished memories with friends. Above all, her greatest joy was her family. She was a wonderful wife, mother, and grandmother who poured her love into her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Those left to cherish her memory include her husband of 67 years, Marion Clark of McDonough, GA. She is also survived by her daughter, Kendall Elliott (Stan) of Jonesboro, GA; her son, Marc Clark (Ashley) of Marietta, GA; and her grandchildren, Elise Barrett (Curtis), Ben Elliott (Katelyn), Avery Clark, and Elizabeth Clark. Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren, Amelia Barrett, Fiona Barrett, Archer Elliott, Daphne Elliott, and Oliver Elliott, as well as many extended family members and friends.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026 at 2:00 PM at Salem Baptist Church, 1724 GA-155 N., McDonough, GA 30252. The family will receive friends and loved ones at the church at 1:00 PM, prior to the service.