Michael David Clark

Michael David Clark, born on January 14, 1951, entered this world with a generous heart, a deep soul, and a wisdom beyond his years. He was the kind of man who led with compassion, made decisions with his heart, and always sought the good in others. His presence was steady, thoughtful, and warm. He was a grounding force for his family and friends.

Michael grew up close to his mother, Virginia Dare Clark, whom he cherished deeply throughout his life. Their bond was one of gentle love, respect, and shared faith; her passing in 2009 shaped him profoundly, and he spoke of her often with reverence and gratitude.

Michael was a gifted athlete, especially on the baseball field. He and his brother Steve Clark were both standouts, and Michael proudly played for Western Carolina University, where his passion for the sport and team spirit shined. His talent, discipline, and drive on the field mirrored the way he approached life — with intention, heart, and commitment.

Beyond athletics, Michael was a man blessed richly in the arts. He spent many years as a central member of the successful band “Cullowhee.” With his bandmates, he sang and played across North Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia, Kentucky and even traveled overseas multiple times to share his music. His voice and talent were more than performance; they were expressions of his spirit. A natural musician, he played clarinet, guitar, mandolin, ukulele, flute and other instruments with joy and ease. Music was his language, and he poured himself into it fully.

After his musical career, Michael found a new creative calling in carpentry. He designed and built custom desks, windows, doors, and pieces that carried both function and character. His work was thoughtful and beautifully meticulous, each project shaped by his hands and his heart. 

Michael married the love of his life, Jamie Clark, in June of 1979. He loved her fiercely and faithfully for the entirety of their marriage. Their life together was filled with laughter, shared dreams, and devotion. He was a husband who protected, supported, and uplifted. He was a constant anchor in her world.

He was deeply close to his daughter, Anna Parks, whom he raised with the same passion and tenderness he brought to everything in his life. To her, he was a teacher, a guide, and a safe place. He welcomed her husband, Josh Parks, into the family with open arms and pride.

Michael is survived by his wife Jamie, his daughter Anna, his son-in-law Josh, and his siblings Steve Clark (Lisa) and Susan Clark (Bruce). He is preceded in death by his father Douglas Lee Clark and beloved mother, Virginia Dare Clark.

To know Michael was to feel seen and cared for. He carried wisdom that came not from age but from living intentionally, listening deeply, and loving completely. He filled rooms with music, laughter, and authenticity, and he left a lasting imprint on everyone fortunate enough to cross his path.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be given to Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute, 1021 Morehead Medical Dr, Charlotte, NC 28204. 

Visitation will be this Friday, December 19th, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Benson Funeral & Cremation Services in Mount Holly, followed by a service at 12:00 p.m. A burial service will follow the funeral at Evergreen cemetery in Belmont, NC.