Zelma Gaskins Clark

Zelma Gaskins Rowe Clark, a remarkable woman of grace, resilience, and devotion, passed away peacefully on August 19, 2025, in her beloved Beaufort County, NC, at the age of 94. Born on August 3, 1931, in the same county, Zelma dedicated her life to her family, her faith, and her community.

Zelma's journey through life was marked by her tireless work ethic and unwavering commitment to those she loved. She began her career as a skilled seamstress at Sampsons Shirt Factory, where her meticulous craftsmanship was widely admired. Later, she served as a devoted secretary for the Gorham Swamp Pentecostal Free Will Baptist Church, where she was also an active member. There, she taught Sunday school, provided leadership, and nurtured the spiritual growth of her community.

A lifelong learner, Zelma proudly earned her GED in her 60s, exemplifying her belief in the power of education and personal growth. Her hobbies included quilting and gardening, which brought her immense joy and peace. Known for her ability to keep everyone in line, Zelma was a natural caregiver, always ready with a helping hand or a word of wisdom.

She is preceded in death by her parents Thad and Arlie Pauline Gaskins, two husbands: David Thomas Rowe Sr. and Johnny Merrion Clark, two brothers: Garland and Elbert Gaskins, daughter Judy Arlene Norris, an infant son Darrel Wayne Rowe, five infant siblings, great-granddaughter Baleigh Marslender, stepson Johnnie Douglas Clark, and step great-grandson Justin Clark.

Zelma's legacy lives on through her loving family. She is survived by her daughter, Sharon Owens, and her husband, Bobby Owens; her sons, David Thomas Rowe Jr., and his wife, Pat Rowe; Jackie Rowe and his wife, Evelyn Rowe; and her son-in-law, Stanley Norris; a sister: Edna Galloway, and a brother: Edgar (Bud) Gaskins and his wife Carolyn; her grandchildren, Angie Marslender; Audrey Smith and her husband, Greg Smith; Stacy Griffin and her husband, Harold Griffin; Shannon Smith and her husband, Jeff Smith; Dana Tyndall and her husband, Matt Tyndall; and Chris Norris and his wife, Dana Norris, along with many wonderful nieces and nephews continue to carry forward her cherished values and traditions.

Zelma was also blessed with great-grandchildren who brought her much pride and joy: Josh Marslender, Madison Smith, Kaleigh Smith, Allen Smith, Tyler Griffin, Jacob Smith and his wife, Kirbyanne Smith, Kaden Tyndall, and Jaxon Tyndall.

Her extended family includes beloved stepdaughters Grace Mills, Denise Dixon and her husband, Randy Dixon, Lorraine Bell and her husband, Ray Bell; step-grandsons Danny Lee Edwards Jr., JD Clark Jr. and his wife, Marsha Clark, Eugene Clark and his wife, Tammy Clark, Mike Mizell Jr. and his wife, Kendra Mizell; step-granddaughter Brandie Dixon; and step-great-grandchildren Dalton Lee Edwards, Kayla Clark, Cadin Clark, Shane Clark, Dylan Clark, Montana Mizell, and Ava Mizell.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Zelma's life at a visitation on Friday, August 22, 2025, at 10:00 am at Gorham Swamp Pentecostal Free Will Baptist Church, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 am at the same location. Interment will proceed at Dixon Cemetery in Chocowinity, NC.

Zelma Gaskins Rowe Clark will be remembered as a pillar of strength, a beacon of love, and a source of inspiration for all who knew her. Her spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched.

The family would like to give special thanks to Gentiva Hospice Health Services, as well as caregivers Lisa Potter, Sheila Bonner (who helped to take care of Ms. Zelma throughout her sickness),Lisa Hardee, Dawn Spain, Brenda Barr, granddaughter Angie Marslender, and stepdaughter Lorraine Bell.

Along with flowers donations can be made to Eastern Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association and to St. Judes Children Hospital.

Joseph B. Paul Jr. Funeral Service is honored to assist the Clark Family.