Earnestine Clark

Earnestine Carroll Clark of Arkadelphia, Arkansas, died Thursday, May 18, 2023, at the age of 93. 

She was born September 28, 1929, in Antoine, Arkansas, and she was a 1947 graduate of Delight High School.

Earnestine was a 1951 graduate of Henderson State Teachers College with a degree in Home Economics, and, years later, she completed a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education after which she taught kindergarten in the Arkadelphia Public Schools until she retired.

She was a lifelong member of the Methodist Church wherever she and her husband lived, and she was always involved in the activities there.  She was currently a member of First United Methodist Church in Arkadelphia.  Earnestine grew up attending Davidson Methodist Campground’s yearly encampment outside of Arkadelphia.  Such a valued and treasured tradition this was for her family that her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren continue that tradition today.  Earnestine was a member of PEO, belonging to Chapter BG and a member of The Order of the Eastern Star.

Earnestine loved family and friends with all her heart.  Spending time with those she knew and loved was always a priority.  Her home was always welcoming, and she was the “Queen” of sourdough cinnamon rolls.  She delighted in sharing them with anyone as a “thank you”, or “hope you feel better soon” or “I’m sorry for your loss”.

She is preceded in death by her husband of 57 years, Dr. Joe Thomas Clark. 

Earnestine is survived by three daughters, Carol Jo Atkinson of Hot Springs, Linda Welch of San Antonio, Texas and Christy Rogers of Arkadelphia; three sons-in-law: Dr. Ross Atkinson, Marc Welch, and Brett Rogers. 

She was an amazing grandmother to eight grandchildren: Chris Atkinson (wife Libby), Kate Atkinson Snodgrass (husband Michael), Daniel Atkinson (wife Brittany), Bethany Vanderhider (husband David), Jake Welch (wife Meagan), Maggie Rogers MyNatt (husband Graham), Colton Rogers, Shelby Rogers and 12 great grandchildren.

A graveside funeral service will be held Wednesday, May 24, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. at Rest Haven Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Arkadelphia with Brother Zeke Allen officiating.

A special thank you to the staff and friends at The Plaza Assisted Living Facility in Arkadelphia where she has lived the last four years.  The kindness and caring extended to her and her family while she lived there was second to none.  She lived contentedly among lifelong friends and caregivers in comfort and safety.

Gifts in memory of Earnestine can be made to First United Methodist Church located at Caddo and 9^th Streets, Arkadelphia, AR 71923, or to the Joe T. Clark Scholarship Fund at Henderson State University Foundation, Box 7550, Arkadelphia, AR 71999.

Arrangements are entrusted to Ruggles Wilcox Funeral Home, 517 Clay Street, Arkadelphia, Arkansas 71923.