Lucy Pearl Clarkson

Lucy Pearl Rexrode Clarkson passed away Sunday, September 21, 2025 in the comfort of her home in Arbovale at the age of 101.

Pearl was born June 4, 1924 to the late Arlie Cecil and Media Alice Sponaugle Rexrode of Arbovale.

Pearl married the love of her life, the late Russell Clarkson, on November 18, 1942 at Monterey, Virginia. At the time of Russell's death on January 2, 2002, Pearl and Russell had been married for 59 years.

After Pearl and Russell were married, they moved to Baltimore, Maryland and worked at the Glen Martin Aircraft Factory. Pearl was a Rosie the Riveter, operated a drill press and worked on planes while in Baltimore. After living three years in Baltimore, Pearl and Russell returned to Cass and both worked for the Mower Lumber Company until 1960. After that, they both worked at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory in Green Bank until they retired. While working at the Observatory, Pearl and Russell built a house in Arbovale and moved from Cass to Arbovale.

In 2017, Pearl went to live with her daughter and best friend, Wanda Jean Raupach, in Bluemont, Virginia. Pearl and Jean were grateful and happy to have this time together. Jean passed away on August 28, 2025. With the help of her devoted and loving caregiver, Stephanie Grant, Pearl returned to her home in Arbovale after Jean's passing.

Pearl was an active member of the Arbovale United Methodist Church where she served as financial secretary for many years. She was also a member of the Cass Chapter 124 OES for over 70 years.

Along with her parents, husband and daughter, Pearl was preceded in death by her siblings, Icie Murphy, Creola Brubaker, Catherine Pugh, Irene Rexrode, Hubert Rexrode, George Rexrode and Guy Rexrode.

Pearl is survived by nieces and nephews and many friends that she considered family.

Pearl was a loving and kind person who gave to others generously and quietly. In Pearl's memory, may we strive to do the same.

A celebration of life will be held for Pearl at 1:00 pm on Saturday, September 27, 2025 at the Arbovale United Methodist Church with Pastors David Rittenhouse and Amy Paul officiating. Burial will follow at the Arbovale Cemetery.

A viewing will be held one hour prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Mountain Hospice, 1002 South Crim Avenue, Belington, WV 26250, Arbovale United Methodist Church c/o Jane Gordon, 3473 N Fork Loop, Green Bank WV 24944 or a charity of your choice.