John R Clark

John Rayford Clark, a devoted servant of God, loving husband, pastor, and family man, passed away on January 10, 2026, at Deaconess Gateway Hospital. He was born on February 4, 1961, in Walker County, Tennessee, and grew up on Sand Mountain in Georgia, where his faith was nurtured from an early age.

John’s life was firmly rooted in his love for the Lord. Raised in the teachings of the Bible at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, he developed a deep, personal relationship with God that guided every aspect of his life. Answering God’s call to ministry, John faithfully served as Pastor of Fellowship Baptist Church for 26 years, preaching the Gospel with conviction, humility, and compassion. He had a shepherd’s heart and a sincere desire to see others grow in their faith, always pointing them toward Christ through his words, prayers, and example.

A proud graduate of Northwest Georgia High School, John carried strong Christian values into all areas of his life. Whether in ministry or in his work as a skilled timber cutter in Indiana—where he was recognized as a top timber cutter—he worked diligently, believing that all labor should honor God.

John found great joy in God’s creation and was an avid outdoorsman. He enjoyed deer hunting, bow activities, fishing, painting, and playing golf. His love for carpentry reflected his God-given creativity and appreciation for craftsmanship. Time spent outdoors often became moments of reflection, gratitude, and praise to the Lord he loved so deeply.

John is survived by his beloved wife, Teresa Clark, with whom he shared a marriage of 45 years where life was grounded in faith and love; his mother, Laritta Brown; daughters, Lora (Tim) Stangle and Susan Davis; sons, Jonathan Clark, Ben (Jessica) Clark, Gabe (Leslie) Clark, and Jacob (Bri) Clark; and his cherished grandchildren, Logan (Serenity), AbeLynn, Lexee, Jebb, Mylz, Brooklynn, Jordon, Erica, Vivian, DJ, Tony, Isabella, Dexter, Enslee, and Cooper. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren, Bentley, Waylon, and Remi.

He was preceded in death by his father, Charles Bufford Clark, and his brother, Crandell Clark.

Family and friends will gather to celebrate John’s life and faith at Goodwin-Sievers Family Funeral Home in Vincennes, Indiana. Visitation will be held on January 15, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., followed by the funeral service at 1:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery.

John Rayford Clark will be remembered as a faithful man of God whose life was a testimony of love, obedience, and service to Christ. His unwavering faith, gentle spirit, and commitment to sharing God’s truth will continue to inspire all who knew him. Goodwin-Sievers Funeral Home is honored and privileged to be entrusted with the care of John and his family.