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A Life That Spoke Loud
John Rolly Clark was born on August 14, 1959, in Hartwell, Georgia, to the late Earnest and Charity Lou (Hill) Clark. He peacefully departed this life on April 9, 2026, at his residence, surrounded by his loving family, following an extended illness. John was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Vannessa (Hudson) Clark; his parents, Earnest and Charity Lou Clark; and his son, Xavier Clark.
John attended East Hall High School, where he met the love of his life, Vannessa. Their journey began at the age of 15, and over more than forty years, they built a life grounded in love, loyalty, and an unbreakable bond.
He began working at Gainesville Scrap and Iron at the age of seventeen and remained a dedicated employee until his retirement in 2004. John was more than a hardworking man, he was dependable, resourceful, and always willing to lend a helping hand. In his community, he was known as a tow truck driver, a skilled mechanic, and someone you could call on when something needed fixing. No matter the situation, John showed up without hesitation.
Outside of work, John found joy and peace in the outdoors. He had a deep love for hunting, especially rabbits, squirrels, possums, and coon hunting, which held a special place in his heart. The sound of beagles running through the woods at night brought him great happiness. He was also an avid fisherman who loved catching catfish, crappie, and bass. There wasn’t a fish John Clark couldn’t catch.
Mr. Clark leaves to cherish his memory his daughters, Kristen Clark of Gainesville, Georgia, and Latavia (Dewayne) Johnson of Virginia; his son, Kellen (Sherika) Clark of Louisiana; his sister, Eddie Sue Dorsey; his brothers, Randolph (Tracy) Clark of Oakwood, Georgia, and Bill Roger Clark of Gainesville, Georgia; his daughters-in-law, Sherika Joseph-Clark, Penelope Parker; and his aunts, Ernestine Bonds, Cornelia Martin, Clara Hylton, Daisy Austin, Evon Newell, and Cynthia Curry.
He is also lovingly remembered by his grandchildren: Sydney Johnson, Chase Johnson, Brittany Pool, Zoe Johnson, Katelynn Johnson, London Kollie, Xavian Clark, Kyndal Clark, and Kellen Clark, Jr.; his foster grandson, Elijah Emanuel; and his great-grandchildren, Hunter Johnson, Kyree Poole, and Emire Poole. He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
Though our hearts are heavy, we are deeply grateful for every moment, every hour, every day, and every life lesson he shared with us. We will love you always and forever.
Memorial Park Funeral Home, 2030 Memorial Park Drive, Gainesville, Georgia 30504 is in charge of the arrangements.
Send online condolences to memorialparkfuneralhomes.com
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