John F. Clark, Jr.

ROCHDALE: John F. "Jack" Clark, Jr., 88, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 22, 2024 at the Rose Monahan Hospice Home, Worcester. His loving wife of 57 years, Nancy M. (Lavelle), passed away in 2017.

Jack is survived by his 3 children, Christine McKernan and her husband Mark of Newburyport, Kathleen Moriarty and her husband Mark of Leicester, and Lynn Clark and her husband Joe Shapiro of Boston. Jack was the proud grandparent of his eight grandchildren; Brian (Cassie), Michael (Katelyn), Kevin, Kelly (Tyler), Kyle (Molly), Ryan (Alyssa), Hayley, and Anna, as well as his 8 great-grandchildren; Kaylie, Connor, Ava, Sophia, Molly, Margaret, Finn and Jack.

Jack was born in Springfield and raised in Holyoke, the son of the late John and Erna (Eilmes) Clark. He graduated from Cathedral High School, where he was a varsity athlete in football, basketball and baseball. He obtained his bachelor's degree from the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and practiced as a pharmacist for five years before pursuing a master's degree in education from Westfield State College.

He was a longtime educator in the Holyoke Public Schools, retiring after 35 years as an elementary school principal. During his career, Jack developed the Holyoke Public Schools Professional Development Center, served as the project manager for the Holyoke Public Schools' multi million dollar elementary school improvement project and was appointed to the Mayor's Committee on Youth Guidance.

Jack was always a strong advocate for the underserved youth of Holyoke. He established and directed The Big Blue Club, a free after-school program where students participated in fun activities and also received educational enrichment. Jack also enjoyed serving as a youth baseball coach for many years.

Jack's wit, stories, and resounding laugh, but most notably his generous heart made him a presence to all who knew him. He was an avid sports fan as anyone who heard the constant ESPN alerts from his phone can attest. He will be sorely missed.

There are no services at this time. The MORIN FUNERAL HOME, 1131 Main St., Leicester, is assisting the family with arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to the Rose Monahan Hospice Home, 10 Judith Road, Worcester MA 01602.