of Little Rock, AR
June 4, 1948 - October 10, 2022
On Monday, October 10, 2022, Donna Clark, beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away at the age of 74.
Born and raised in Paris, Texas, Donna was the child of Clifford and Kathryne Dowdy. Over the course of her life, she shared her talent and creativity with the world around her as a teacher, musician, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. She was preceded in death by her husband, Dave Clark, and survived by her two children, Wade and Ali, and her cherished grandchildren, Maylen, Hudson, Baylor, and Ford.
Donna was known for her intelligence, style, wit, generosity, and a withering stare that could silence a rowdy schoolroom without uttering a word. This stare was honed to a surgical precision as a teacher at Crockett Middle School in Paris, where she met her life-long friend, Barbara Hays. Together, they used their culinary skills to open multiple successful restaurants and a thriving events and catering business. She continued to develop these skills, and after moving to Dallas, worked for the Dallas Cowboys, where she was in charge of the largest, most high-profile events at Texas Stadium. It was here where she would meet her future husband, Dave Clark.
Donna was also a highly artistic woman. She loved to play the piano, and unlike many, the piano loved her back. She played with an effortless skill, and her friends and family knew that at any moment, her home could be filled with a concert-quality performance. These skills were on more public display as she served as the long-time organist for Calvary United Methodist Church in Paris. In control of the church's large pipe organ, she was regularly the musical foundation of weekly services, weddings, special events, and performances of the church choir.
Donna was a tireless supporter and Board Member of the Ronald McDonald House, contributing her time, money, and creativity to projects that impacted countless families in Arkansas and beyond. Even in the days before her passing, she served as the driving force of the highly successful casino night, raising nearly $100,000 for the families of critically ill children.
Most of all, Donna will be remembered and missed by her friends and family. She intensely loved and cared for her children, Ali and Wade. This love was only surpassed by her love for her grandchildren. She positively doted on Maylen, Hudson, Baylor, and Ford and cherished every picture, game, performance, and report card. She was a loyal and caring friend that brought laughter into any gathering. From her husband Dave, she learned a love of horse racing and loved to bring her friends together to watch races and have a glass of wine. She also exhibited the mental agility to support the Razorbacks when with her friends, the Longhorns with her son, and the Hurricanes with her daughter. She was a remarkable lady, who lived an extraordinary life and will be missed by many.
A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. October 22nd at Roller-Chenal Funeral Home on Chenal Parkway in Little Rock. Flowers or remembrances can be sent to 13801 Chenal Pkwy, Little Rock, AR 72211, or donations can be made to the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Arkansas.
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12 Condolence(s)
Thom Metcalf
Tuesday, October 25, 2022
We will watch for you on the mountain, old friend!
Janell Mason
Sunday, October 16, 2022
To Wade, Ali, Chad, and those beautiful grandchildren, you were the blinding sparkles in her eyes. To Donna's gal pal squad - y'all are truly the epitome of friendship.
Donna was larger than life and had a heart as big as Texas. I will forever miss my friend and am beyond grateful to have had the good fortune of making some incredibly special memories with her. To say she cared about families at the Ronald McDonald House is an understatement. She was a fierce advocate for them and continues to help them in so many ways. Donna's legacy of compassion, care and her philanthropy remain with our team each and every day.
My love and prayers are with you all. xxooJ
Skip Smith
Friday, October 14, 2022
Wade, Ali, and grandchildren: It breaks my heart to know we've lost such an honest, down-to-earth, funny, smart, caring and loving soul. Only the healing hands of time will soften your grief.
Tony Booth
Friday, October 14, 2022
My heart goes out to Donna's family and her close friends far and wide. May she rest in peace and her name be a blessing to all.
Sue Evans
Thursday, October 13, 2022
Wishing Donna’s family peace and privacy as they navigate this very sad time. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Beverly Bramlett fortner
Wednesday, October 12, 2022
Donna was my friend and high school classmate. She was as kind and thoughtful as she was beautiful. She will be missed. Prayers for those she leaves behind.
Darretta Williams
Wednesday, October 12, 2022
It was nice meeting Mrs. Clark and to even be in her presence for a short period of time was pleasant. Praying for privacy, comfort, and peace for family and friends. She seemed to be a very sweet queen. We are all sending our condolences.
-A Place at Home Staff
Barry & Becky Knight
Wednesday, October 12, 2022
Dawn Scott Sumners
Tuesday, October 11, 2022
My dad Larry Scott went to school with Donna. We were just talking about her after their recent class reunion.
Larry Scott
Tuesday, October 11, 2022
Donna was my classmate and friend from elementary and high school she always was nice to me even though I was handicapped she will be missed by so many people prayers for family and fur babies
Charlcie Devlin Taylor
Tuesday, October 11, 2022
Sending my love to Donna’s family and friends. Donna and I were childhood friends. She was a special person always. With fond memories, Charlcie
Kay Holleman
Tuesday, October 11, 2022
My heart goes out to the family for the pain and grief you are experiencing. However, I rejoice for Donna as she is free of pain. Our lives have been enmeshed since we were in elementary school, so I know too well how special she was. Love and prayers.
Kay Holleman