Our dearest mother, Ruth Catherine Allen Clark was one of twelve children born to the late James Eugene and Jane Wall Allen on July 19, 1923 in Anson County, North Carolina; she transitioned gracefully from this earthly world on Sunday, December 3, 2023 at the age of 100 in the presence of her daughters.

Catherine received her formal education at West Ansonville School. At an early age, she confessed Christ and joined Pleasant Hill Baptist Church in Ansonville, N.C. Catherine was a faithful, dedicated and lifelong member. Throughout her membership, she served as a Sunday school teacher, usher and Senior choir member. As an addition to her roles, Catherine also served on the kitchen committee. Catherine was a member of Shining Star #649, OES, PHA; she held the position of treasurer during her membership.

Catherine was joined in holy matrimony to John Underwood Clark, who preceded her in death. To this union nine children were born.

Catherine worked in various positions during her career: domestic engineer, teacher aide, and school dietician. Catherine retired from Anson County School leaving an impact on staff and students. She enjoyed attending ceramic classes, cooking jack pies, dancing/music, watching TV and spending time with family.

In addition to her parents and spouse, Catherine was preceded in death by one daughter, Rose Mary Clark Long; two sons, Richard Underwood Clark and David Eugene Clark and a grandson, Travis Lamont Clark; siblings, Hampton Allen, Mary Swiner, Jennie Lee Bloomfield, Helen Allen, Richard Anson Allen, Tom Allen, Mattie Allen, Clarence Allen, Pine Allen and William Allen.

She leaves to cherish her most precious and fond memories are two sons, John Clark Jr. (Myrtle) of Charlotte, NC and Robert Clark of Wadesboro, NC; four daughters, Ruth Williams of Ansonville, NC, Patti Clark of Charlotte, NC, Betty Clark and Lucille Tillman (Curtis) of Ansonville, NC; one sister, Marie Matthews of Winston Salem, NC; 12 grandchildren; 20 great grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends.

The Services to Honor the Life and Legacy of Mother Clark will be on Sunday, December 10, 2023, 1:00pm, Pleasant Hill Baptist Church, Ansonville, North Carolina. Interment will be in the family plot of the Church Cemetery.

The Clark Family will greet family and friends on Sunday, December 10, 2023 from 12:30-1:00pm at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church and at all other times at the residence.

The public viewing will be on Friday, December 8, 2023 from 3:00-5:00pm at Smith Funeral Home and on Saturday, December 9, 2023 from 1:00-3:00pm.