James Douglas Clark's Obituary
James Douglas "Jimmy" Clark March 9, 1945 – April 21, 2025 James Douglas “Jimmy” Clark, 80, of Gumboro, DE, passed away peacefully at home on April 21, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Born on March 9, 1945, in Salisbury, MD, Jimmy was the son of the late Ernest and Helena (West) Clark. He was also preceded in death by his grandparents, Wallace D. and Ruth Clark.
Jimmy was a dedicated automotive mechanic by trade and had a lifelong passion for racing and NASCAR. For many years, Jimmy raced Stockcars in Delmar and Georgetown, where he won numerous trophies and awards. He will always be the #30. He also took great pride in maintaining his yard, a place where he found both joy and tranquility.
Jimmy is survived by his devoted wife of 61 years, Patricia Lynne “Patti” (Melson) Clark; his brothers, Ernie Clark (Carol) and Donnie Clark, both of Gumboro, DE; and many cherished nieces and nephews: Randy Clark (Cheryl) of Gumboro, DE, Robin Clark Smith (Brian) of Gumboro, DE, Sherry Hudson (Russell) of Frankford, DE, Don Clark of Millsboro, DE, Teresa Records (Bryan) of Salisbury, MD, Susan Easton Small (Alan) of South Carolina, David Easton (Jill) of Pittsville, MD, Jennifer Dashiell Alder (Ben) of Westover, MD, Amy Dashiell Lemon (Brian) of Salisbury, MD, and Bruce Dashiell III of Salisbury, MD.
He is also survived by his sisters-in-law, Carole Shiles (Alex) and Debbie Dashiell (Bruce); his adopted daughter who helped through all of his hospital stays, Heather Dernberger of Millsboro, DE; his beloved dog, Trevor; and numerous grandnieces and grandnephews who brought light into his life.
Per his wishes, services will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Jimmy’s name to the American Diabetes Association at https://www.diabetes.org. Jimmy will be remembered for his big heart, strong work ethic, and love for family, friends, and four-legged companions. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Please sign Mr. Clark's Tribute wall at this site.
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