David E. Clark

David Edward Clark, 67, beloved husband of Mary M. Clark, moved to his eternal home on Thursday, March 6, 2025, in Abbeville, SC. David was born February 22, 1958, in Rochester, NY to the late George Edward Ratcliffe and Dorothy Alice Diehl Clark Washburn. He formerly resided in Horseheads and West Bloomfield, NY until eventually settling in Abbeville, SC.

David was a wonderful family man and his life was defined by his unwavering devotion to his loved ones. He created cherished memories with his children and grandchildren, both biological and bonus alike. His greatest joy in life was his family and friends, near and far.

In 1975, David enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and received an honorable discharge shortly thereafter. He had an infectious enthusiasm and passion for life. David was a skilled dirt track race car driver throughout the 80’s & 90’s, thrilling crowds at Canandaigua Motorsports Park in Canandaigua, NY. His passions extended beyond the track and into nature. He enjoyed fishing, camping, gem mining, gold panning, hunting, exploring state parks, historical sites and spending time with family and friends. His love for the outdoors was matched only by his unwavering loyalty as an avid Buffalo Bills fan, rarely missing a game. He also enjoyed NASCAR and racing events, whether on television or at the track.

David attended His Tabernacle Family Church in Horseheads, NY, where he accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. Even when on the road, he tuned in via livestream and continued to do so after moving to Abbeville, SC, attending in person whenever visiting Horseheads, NY. He also tuned in regularly to hear the teachings of Dr. Charles Stanley from In Touch Ministries.

David dedicated 28 years of his life to Kraft Foods in Avon, NY, where he built strong relationships and a reputation for his hard work. Following his time at Kraft, David embarked on a fulfilling new chapter, embracing the open road as a professional truck driver. From 2007 to 2017, he explored the beauty and diversity of the country, traversing all 48 states.

In 2017, David settled in Abbeville, SC, where he continued his successful trucking career with Hanna Brothers Logging and also forged a treasured friendship with Kenny Johnson; a loyal bond that enriched his life in his later years. Even as his travels slowed, his bold nature and adventurous spirit for life never diminished.

David was preceded in death by his parents; son, Daniel Jacob Clark; stepfather, Stewart S. Washburn; sister, Jannette King (Washburn); brothers, John R. “Skip” Clark and Dennis Ratcliffe, as well as several step-brothers and sisters.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Martha Clark (Montanye Narde) of the home; stepchildren Dominic (Cayla) Narde and Angelica (Christopher) Morgan all of Elmira Heights, NY; nine grandchildren, Danica, Dustin, Macenzie, Aubrey, Daniel, Izaiah, Ariel, DeeJay, and Tamzin, and one great grandchild, Delilah.

He is also survived by his brothers & sisters, Bonnie Ellis of Jessup, GA, Laura Washburn of Canandaigua, NY, Sharon Clark of Collins, GA, Susan (Timothy) Halbert of Spokane Valley, WA, Mark (Sandra) Washburn of Toomsboro, GA, Rebecca (Robert) Elder of Canandaigua, NY, Matthew Washburn of Honeoye, NY, and Joanne Stauffer (John) of Dansville, NY; several step-brothers and sisters and numerous nieces and nephews.

A special thanks to David’s brother-in-law, Charles Montanye, sister-in-law, Viktoria Montanye, and cherished friend, Kenneth Johnson for their continued love, dedication, support, smiles, and friendship.

A celebration of David’s life is being planned for a later date in April in Calhoun Falls, SC, where he enjoyed the solace of fishing and creating precious memories with family and friends.

A memorial service for David will be held in Horseheads, NY, at a later date, between May and July, where he shared meaningful moments with his stepchildren, their spouses, grandchildren and beloved friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests donations towards David’s final expenses be sent to his wife, Mary Clark, and would be deeply and sincerely appreciated. Memorial contributions may also be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

A message of condolence may be sent to the family by visiting www.harrisfuneral.com.

Harris Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Abbeville is assisting the Clark family.