In Loving Memory of Susan Ellen Clarke

January 24, 1941 – October 18, 2024

Susan Ellen Clarke (née Herald), beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully in Dagsboro, Delaware, surrounded by her loving family. Born on January 24, 1941, in Yonkers, New York, Sue was the cherished daughter of George Thomas Herald and E. Irene Herald. She grew up in a lively household as one of five sisters, affectionately known within the family as "The Herald Angels." The values of family, love, and community that Sue learned in her early years remained central throughout her life.

Sue graduated from Gorton High School in Yonkers and went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Art Education from The College of New Rochelle. Her passion for the arts led her to Columbia University, where she received a Master of Arts in Art Education. Sue dedicated the early part of her career to nurturing creativity in young minds as an art teacher in the Yonkers Public Schools from 1962 to 1967.

In 1966, Sue married the love of her life, William Clarke, and together they embarked on the beautiful journey of building a family. They raised their children in White Plains, NY, West Simsbury, CT, and Sparta, NJ, before retiring to the peaceful Cripple Creek community in Dagsboro, DE. Sue's love for art never waned, and she continuously shared her talents with those around her. Whether through her own creations or by teaching others, she embodied the true spirit of an artist—one who sees beauty in the world and seeks to bring it to life.

While raising her five children, Sue also dedicated herself to serving her community. She held leadership roles in numerous organizations, including the Cub Scouts, the Board of Directors for the New York Diabetes Association, the Westchester Diabetes Association, and various religious committees at St. Mary's and St. Catherine's in Connecticut, as well as St. Vincent DePaul and St. Ann's in Delaware. Her tireless work, commitment to service, and unyielding generosity touched the lives of many.

Above all, Sue will be remembered for her immense love for her family. She was the devoted wife of Bill for more than 58 years and the proud mother of five children, whom she adored deeply. Her strength, kindness, and warmth will live on in the hearts of her children: Susan Duggan (James), Dennis Clarke, William Clarke, George Clarke (Jessica), and her 13 cherished grandchildren. She now joins in eternal peace her beloved son, Kevin Clarke (Lenore), and her dear sister Joan Comey (Brien), who predeceased her.

Sue is survived by her husband William, her four living children, 13 grandchildren, and her sisters Irene Matthews (William), Barbara Traub (Richard), and Mary Herald (Joseph d'Oronzio). Her legacy of love, service, and creativity will continue to inspire those who had the honor of knowing her.

Sue's family finds comfort in knowing that she is now reunited with those she has lost, and her spirit remains ever-present in the memories and hearts of her loved ones. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

A visitation will be held on October 28, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. followed by an 11:00 a.m. memorial service celebrating Sue's life at the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, 35318 Church Rd, Frankford, DE 19945. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in Sue's name to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul at the Parish of St. Ann (online donations can be made through St. Ann at https://secure.myvanco.com/L-ZAH1/campaign/C-13TG0).