Mother Althalene Clark

CLARK, Mother. Althalene - Age 91, passed away Friday, December 22, 2023, at Briarwood Manor. Family hour 10:00 AM Friday, December 29, 2023, at Vernon Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church, 5802 Dupont St., with funeral service commencing at 11:00 AM, Pastor Douglas Banks, officiating. Interment Lovedale Memorial Cemetery G-5175 E. Bristol Rd., Burton, MI. Friends and pallbearers will assemble at the Church 10:00 AM Friday. Mother Clark will lie in state in the Chapel of Lawrence E. Moon Funeral Home, 906 W. Flint Park Blvd., and may be viewed from 12:00 PM-6:00 PM Thursday, with family present to receive friends from 3:00 PM-5:00 PM. Althalene Clark was born on September 24, 1932 to Elmer and Mable Acker in Springfield, Arkansas. She was the second child and only daughter of five children. She spent her early childhood in Conway County in the community of Union Chapel. Althalene Clark, a beloved soul, accepted Christ into her heart at the tender age of twelve and united with Mt. Hebrew CME church under the pastoral care of Rev. S. W. Greer. Her faith was unwavering, and she often found solace at the Greater Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church in Plumerville, Arkansas, attending services during special programs, alternate Sundays, and when her own church did not meet. Althalene's educational journey took her from grade one through eight at Union Chapel, and she furthered her studies at Conway County Training School in Menifee, Arkansas, where she discovered her passion for Home Economics. As the only daughter, she gracefully embraced the responsibilities of numerous household duties, showcasing her talent in cooking, cleaning, sewing, washing, and caring for her younger brothers. During her youth, Althalene spent summers and fall months in other towns, tirelessly chopping and picking cotton. It was during one such endeavor in Parksdale, Southeast Arkansas, that she met Otis Clark, a handsome young farmer. Their love blossomed, leading to a joyous union in marriage on January 3, 1951. The couple settled in Dermott on an 80-acre farm, where Althalene showcased her exceptional domestic skills. Early mornings were dedicated to preparing hot breakfasts for her husband, followed by work in the fields. Her days were filled with love as she returned home to prepare hot lunches and suppers. Althalene's dedication extended to providing additional income for her family through winter months, working in Little Rock, Arkansas, doing domestic work for a private family. An active and faithful member of Knox Street A.M.E Zion Church during her time in Dermott, Althalene continued her spiritual journey when she, along with her family, moved to Flint, Michigan, in June of 1967. She joined the Vernon Chapel AME Church under the Pastoral care of Rev. Rueben Russell, remaining a steadfast member until her earthly departure. Her commitment to the church was evident in her active participation in various ministries, including the Senior Choir, Usher Ministry, and the Missionary Society. Althalene's dedication extended beyond the church walls. She worked diligently for 25 years at Chevrolet, retiring in 1996. In her community, she served as President of the Baker Street Block Club for many years, receiving numerous awards for her exceptional service and leadership. A culinary maestro, Althalene's cooking prowess was renowned. Even after retirement, she continued to share her culinary delights with her community for a minimal fee. As her health declined, she persisted in preparing wholesome feasts and holiday meals for her cherished family and friends. In celebrating the life of Althalene Clark, we remember a woman, who many called her Mother, whose legacy is defined by faith, love, service, and a profound commitment to family. May her memory be a source of inspiration and comfort to all who knew and loved her. As the sunset on December 22, 2023, we said our farewells to a woman whose life was a testament to faith, family, love, and commitment. Althalene was predeceased by her husband of 38 years, Otis Clark; parents, Elmer and Mable Acker; grandmother, Daisy Winston Harris; daughter, Lue Ann Newman; brothers, Clifton Clarence Acker and Connie Charles Acker; and grandsons, Christopher Brown, Corey Newman and Jordan “Emoni” Wright. Mourning her loss, yet rejoicing in her purposeful life are: children, Nina Faye Stagger of Little Rock, Arkansas, Charlie C. Clark and wife, Patricia of Flint, Elmer Lee Clark and wife, Linda, of San Antonio, Texas, William Graham and wife Loretta of Dermott, AR; grandchildren, Andrea Canley, Melanie Best and husband Leon, Christal Stagger, Demetria L. Smith and Amekia Newman, Kinda Clark, Kwasi Clark, and Kamal and wife Delilah, Mary Johnson, Brittany Clark and Johnathan and wife Asia; 17 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great-grandchildren; two brothers, Willie Acker and Robert Acker, both of Denver, Colorado; brother-in-law, Odell Clark; other sons, Harold Haywood and Eugene “Googa” Harris; and a host of relatives and friends. Funeral service will be live streamed on Facebook live at: vernonchapelchurch.com

Mother Althalene Clark

September 24, 1932 - December 22, 2023