residence. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Coker-Mathews Funeral Home and
services are yet to be determined.
James was born on January 21, 1935 to Ollie and Willie Clark. They rushed to the hospital in
Paris, Texas in bitterly cold weather. The family moved around as James was growing up, and
he graduated from Royse City high school in 1954, where he played on the football team. He
attended Kilgore Jr. College on a football scholarship, and met the love of his life, Jackie, there.
James and Jackie were married July 3, 1955. They lived in Mesquite as their family grew, then
moved to 'the farm' near Greenville in 1969. James worked for a while at Ford Motor Company
in Dallas, then apprenticed as a carpenter and began a career in commercial construction. His
hobbies included bird-watching, as well as raising and breeding beef cattle.
James and Jackie were members of Park Street Baptist Church for many years.
James was very active in Masonic life for 50+ years. He was past Master of Mesquite,
Greenville and Royse City lodges.
James is preceded in death by his loving wife Jackie in 2022, and his parents.
James is survived by his brother, Harry Clark of Caddo Mills, and his three daughters: Paula
Clark, Janice Tower, and Cheryl Trueblood, as well as grand-daughters Toni Gribble and Diane
Henry, and great-grandchildren Evelyn, Caleb, Ryland, Connor, Mason and Emma.
The family would like to thank James' long-time caregivers Robin and Geneva, as well as
Debra, Delmi and others, and his hospice team of Nikki, Jennifer, Joanne and Heather.
Condolences(2)
Pat Patterson
Dallas, TX Thursday, September 26, 2024 So sorry to hear of James’ passing. My late husband Bob and I graduated with him from RCHS in 1954. Bob and he played football together. We thought the world of James and Jackie. So sorry to hear of her passing as well. I pray God will give you all the strength to face the difficult time ahead. Two lives well lived. May God bless you all. Pat PattersonPat Patterson
Dallas, TX Thursday, September 26, 2024 My late husband and I graduated from Royse City High School with James. My late husband, Bob and he played football together. We thought the world of he and your mother, Jackie. My sympathy to your entire family. I pray God will give you all strength to face this difficult time.