A bright candle flickered and went dark last Thursday night, leaving shadow, but in the twinkling of an eye a new star arose in the heavens. Last Thursday a small sparrow closed its eyes and its song faded into the dusk as somewhere an eagle took flight. The arms of his loved ones were left reaching at wind, and hearts were broken when Jimmy Clark traded time for eternity.
Grandson of Hermie Dills of Franklin and only son of the late Joseph Earl Clark and Evelyn Clark of Easley, South Carolina, Jimmy is survived by his wife of 35 years Audrey Clark, two sons and daughters in law: Gregg and Pauletta Clark of Franklin and Scott Clark and Christy Uchida of Nashville, Tennessee. He is also survived by three sisters and their husbands: Debby and Bryan Limbaugh of Easley, South Carolina, Janet and Jay Schoebel of Piedmont, South Carolina and Tina and Joel Galloway of Franklin. He is also survived by three sisters in law and one brother in law: Carolyn and Virinder Nohria, Pat Ensley, Christy Raby, and Johnny Rice. He was the loving grandfather to Aaron Brooks, Erika Brooks and Shade Clark, and beloved uncle to 6 nieces, 10 nephews and 13 great nieces and nephews. He was a member of Rose Creek Baptist Church.
Jimmy was a locksmith by trade, but was proud of the nearly two decades he spent as a member of the Franklin Police Department, most of which he worked under the rank of Assistant Chief. Though Jimmy Clark lived but 55 years, his accomplishments were great. He was a decorated law officer, winning the Young Law Officer of the Year award, three lifesaving citations and multiple academic awards. He was a treasured member of the community, never just a face in the crowd. He was loved by so many and was the finest husband, father, and grandfather anyone could ask for or dream of.
Jokes were funnier if Jimmy was in the room. The rain fell straighter and the sun seemed to shine brighter if Jimmy Clark was near. Animals went to him. Babies smiled and children crowded around his legs. No person that ever lived has ever loved or been prouder of his family than Jimmy Clark, and now as the October leaves silently carpet the mountains his family is aching, aching for his touch, his voice and his smile, but Heaven is singing; eagles are flying and the sky is alive with light. Jimmy Clark can see clearly now, he can run without hurting and his heart is no longer weak but is beating the rhythm of the Creator, a rhythm that has no beginning and has no end. What a blissful moment it will be when we step into the light and look upon the smile of Jimmy Clark once again.