Oak Ridge Funeral Care
James "Jim" A. Clarke, 77, of Davenport, FL, formerly of St. Petersburg, FL, passed away on July 27, 2024. Born on February 10, 1947, in Chambersburg, PA.
Jim married his beloved wife, Alberta McBride, on January 29, 1965. In 1967, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served with distinction in the Vietnam War for 13 months. Following his service in Vietnam, Jim completed his four-year enlistment as a corporal in the Security Police at Andrews Air Force Base. After returning home, Jim and his family settled in St. Petersburg, where he embarked on a successful second career as a master plumber. In the early 1990s, he founded Clarke's Ground Maintenance, where his commitment to treating clients like family earned him lasting relationships and a stellar reputation.
During his time in St. Petersburg, Jim was an active member of the local V.F.W. and the Marine Corps League. After retirement, he and Alberta moved to Holiday, FL, and just three years ago, they relocated to Davenport, FL. Jim was known for his vibrant personality and his remarkable ability to connect with everyone he met.
Jim is survived by his devoted wife of 59 years, Alberta Louise Clarke; his daughters, Cynthia Clarke Hanna and Reverend Patricia Clarke, both of Davenport; his stepbrothers, Dennis and Albert Street; his grandson, Stephen Hanna and his wife, Shelley; and his granddaughter, Chelsie Alvin and her husband, Andrew.
A celebration of Jim's life will be held at St. Luke's United Methodist Church, 4851 S. Apopka and Vineland Road, Orlando, FL 32819, on Saturday, August 31, 2024, at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Gary Sinise Foundation.
LINKS
Tampa Bay Times Memoriams
http://tampabay.com
Memories
Gallery
Guestbook