LANCASTER, SC – Mr. Jerry Leroy Clarke, age 83, passed away on Monday, September 14, 2026, at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Lancaster, SC on June 16, 1943. He was the son of the late Leroy Clarke and the late Lettie Williams Clarke, and was the loving husband of Grace Hutchison Fudge-Clarke.

Mr. Clarke was a faithful member of Lancaster First Pentecostal Church, where his church and church family held a special place in his heart. His faith was evident not only through his church involvement, but also through the way he cared for others. He considered his personal ministry to be calling his friends each day, checking on them, encouraging them, and making sure they knew they were loved and remembered.

Mr. Clarke had many interests that brought him joy throughout his life. He loved carpentry work and took great pride in working with his hands. He also enjoyed fishing and spending time at Springmaid Campground in Myrtle Beach, a place that held many special memories for him. A lifelong sports fan, he proudly supported the Lancaster Blue Hurricanes and was honored with many sportsmanship awards during his years involved with Lancaster football. He was a proud graduate of Lancaster High School, Class of 1962.

Above all, Mr. Clarke will be remembered for his love for his church, his friends, and the many people whose lives he touched through his kindness, faithfulness, and genuine care for others.

Mr. Clarke leaves behind his wife of 41 years; Grace Fudge-Clarke; his son, Gregory Todd Clarke, and his fiancée, Tina Hambrick; his daughter, Wanda Fudge-Kilpatrick (Jay); his two grandchildren, Madison Diane Clarke, and Bradley Gerald Povazsay (Anna).

He is preceded in death by his parents, Leroy and Lettie Clarke.

The Celebration of Life Funeral Service for Mr. Clarke will be held at 1:00pm on Friday, September 18, 2026, at Lancaster First Pentecostal Church, officiated by Rev. Jimmy Lambert, Rev. Bill Phipps, and Rev. Tommy Ross, and Walt Garris. Burial will follow at Lancaster Memorial Park.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service, from 12:00p.m. to 1:00 p.m., one hour prior to the service in the church sanctuary.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Lancaster First Pentecostal Church, 1138 10th St., Lancaster, SC 29720 or to Agape Hospice, 404 W Meeting St. Lancaster SC 29720.