Sandra Beall Clarke

Sandra Beall Clarke (“Sandy”) 74, of Belle Meade, TN, passed away peacefully with her family by her side on August 2, 2025.

Born in Nashville on a brisk winter day, Sandy entered the world with vibrant red hair and two striking eyes—one blue, one green. She graduated from Hillwood High School in 1969 and attended the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where she met her future husband, Samuel Rogers Clarke Jr., in his Willys “Tennessee Walking” Jeep. Together they welcomed three wonderful (and rowdy) children: Courtney Clarke, Samuel Rogers “Bo” Clarke III, and Joshua Clarke.

Sandy had a lifelong love for animals, spending many years caring for West Nashville’s pets while working at Belle Meade Animal Hospital. She was known for painting her festive dog collars and could often be spotted walking her dogs at the Belle Meade Plantation while listening to an audiobook from the Green Hills Library. She was the champion of the 1988 backyard croquet circuit, an internationally recognized Rhopalocrist, and had a passion for perfecting the art of making guests stay just one more hour. She loved Cheekwood’s gardens, walks in nature, and serving her community as an election poll worker, reminding everyone, “If you don’t vote, you can’t complain!”

Her home reflected her joy for life and love of celebration. No matter the season, she had decorations for every holiday. At Christmas, her real tree sparkled with beautiful ornaments and the traditional hidden pickle—one year hidden so well it was never found.

Sandy had a way of making people feel seen and welcome. Whether talking about plants, football, animals, or music, she always found common ground. Her home was always open, and she welcomed everyone with the warmth and love of family. She was warm and kind but also unafraid to speak the truth, offering advice without sugarcoating and helping guide others in the right direction.

She is survived by her children — Bo and his wife Dianna, Courtney, and Josh and his wife Amanda; her grandchildren — Peyton and his wife Heather, Lillee, Ellie, Scarlette, Veronna, and Hallie; and her great-grandchildren — Owen, Kairi, and Juniper.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 23, from 2:00–6:00 p.m. at The Pavilion at Harpeth, 9090 TN-100, Nashville, TN 37221.