William Howard Clark Jr.'s Obituary
William Howard Clark, Jr., known to family and friends simply as Howard, peacefully passed away surrounded by his loving family on September 28, 2025, at the age of 89.
Howard was born on March 18, 1936, at Misericordia Hospital in Philadelphia, PA, to the late W. Howard Clark, Sr. and Helen (nee Garty) Clark. He was raised in Wynnewood, Pennsylvania, alongside his brother Edward “Eddie” Clark, who predeceased him. Together they were affectionately known as “Howie and Eddie,” inseparable through their days at Our Lady of Lourdes Grade School and Malvern Preparatory School, where Howard graduated with the Class of 1954. He later went on to attend Villanova University and Saint Bonaventure University.
Early in life, Howard worked alongside the Franciscan Friars and dedicated himself to the Civil Rights Movement, even meeting Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. during his time in Harlem. Yet, the greatest chapter of his life began when he met Elizabeth “Betsy” Clark (nee Bannon). Their friendship blossomed into love, and in 1971, after Howard’s dispensation from the Friars, they were married. Howard ultimately spent his life with, Betsy, his devoted wife of 54 years. Together, they raised two beloved sons, Howard (Howie) and John (Lee Anne), and welcomed two cherished grandchildren, Sarah and Joseph. He had a special spot in his heart for all the care John’s wife, Lee Anne Clark (nee Anderson), brought into his life.
Howard went on to build a life’s work in financial planning, founding Clark Associates Financial Planning, Inc., a firm that continues to thrive today under John’s leadership. For over 40 years, his enthusiasm, wisdom, and gift for connecting with people defined his career. He loved telling jokes, sharing stories, and guiding clients as if they were family. Upon retirement, he and Betsy moved to Cape May, where they enjoyed many happy years together by the sea.
Howard was a lifelong Philadelphia Eagles fan, known for his spirited devotion and his signature tartan plaid hat. To family and friends alike, he will be remembered for his warmth, humor, deep convictions, and above all, his enduring love.
Howard’s life will be celebrated with a Mass of Christian Burial at Saint Joan of Arc Catholic Church, Marlton, New Jersey, on October 11, 2025. Visitation begins at 10am followed by Mass at 11am. Interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Howard’s memory to his favorite charity, The Benedictine Foundation, 14299 Benedictine Lane, Ridgely, MD 21660, which provides group homes and schooling for persons with developmental and intellectual disabilities (benschool.org/donations).
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