Marie Izora Clark was born in Memphis on July 30, 1940, to Willie Mae Taylor and Jeff
White. She was one of six siblings and passed away on May 1, 2026. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ozell Clark, her sister Earniece, and her brother Melvin. She is survived by siblings; Erskine, Charlesetta, and Jalaina, and her five children; Shari, Tanya, Darryl (Angie), Dana, and Cheaney (Tina). She also has four blended daughters: Angela, Vontina, Lakiesha, and Deneka Clark. She is the proud grandmother of 19 and leaves behind her great-great grandchildren as well. In addition to her own children, Marie lovingly cared for and guided several stepchildren, godchildren, nieces, nephews, and close family friends, embracing all with the same warmth and unconditional love.
Growing up in Memphis, Marie attended Booker T. Washington High School. In 1971, she began her career at Scripps Mercy Hospital in the Food & Nutrition Services Department, where she faithfully dedicated 34 years of service. During her years there, her beautiful singing voice became a source of comfort and inspiration to many. She was often invited to sing in the chapel on Wednesdays and requested to perform at weddings, retirement celebrations, and memorial services for patients, friends, coworkers, and church family alike.
Marie devoted her life to serving at Mt. Olive Baptist Church for 34 years, where she sang in the choir, taught Sunday school and performed Mission Society work. Later, she joined Greater Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church under the guidance of Dr. R. L. Edwards, Sr., where she continued her unwavering commitment as a choir member,
and President of the Deaconess Ministry.
Marie was renowned for her gentle and compassionate nature, creating a nurturing and welcoming environment for all she encountered. Her presence left an indelible mark on everyone, fostering a sense of love, encouragement, and care. Affectionately known as “Granny”, she ensured that her family nurtured their faith, recognized the significance of prayer, and cultivated unwavering faith within their hearts. Her kindness, wisdom, and selfless spirit touched countless lives, and she consistently demonstrated her willingness to assist others in any way she could. Her cherished song, “May the Work I’ve Done Speak for Me,” eloquently encapsulates the life she lived, which was characterized by love, faith, compassion, and selfless service to others. Her legacy will endure through the lives she profoundly impacted and the family she held dear.
