The Life of Mildred S. Clark

Mildred S. Clark (nee Smith), age 102, of Lima, PA, passed away on February 12, 2021.   Born on October 26, 2018 in Philadelphia, PA, she was the daughter of the late George William and Katharine Smith (nee Bensel). 

Mildred was a graduate of Overbrook High School in Philadelphia, where she was active in sports and played on the volleyball team.  Growing up, she celebrated the holidays with aunts, uncles and cousins. 

She learned baking from her mother.   Later, when she had a home of her own, she was an extraordinary hostess.   Her nieces said the food at the holiday get-togethers was wonderful.  Her specialty was her Christmas sugar cookie. 

Mildred worked as a Secretary in the offices of the Pennsylvania Railroad/Conrail, located at 30th and Market Streets in Philadelphia.  She took the trolley to 30th Street and then walked to work.

Mildred was predeceased by her first husband, Alan Morris.   He died while serving in the United States Army. 

Before remarrying, Mildred traveled extensively through Europe.  She married her second husband, Jack Clark, and together they hosted a game club once a month in their home.  Folks would come for good food and an evening of fun.  The New Year’s Eve board game party was especially enjoyable. 

Although Mildred did not have children of her own, she treated her nieces and nephews as though they were her own.   She was generous with Christmas gifts and when the grand nieces and nephews came along, she personally selected gifts for them. 

Mildred had a very strong faith and had been an active member of Aldan Union Church.   She served in the Ladies Ministry and in the Missionary Society.  

In 2008, she moved to Lima Estates and remained active with arts and crafts, hymn sings, the Red Hat Society and attending various luncheons.  She was a very social and happy woman.  When asked about her longevity, she laughed.   Her nieces and nephews attributed it to her determination and strong will.   She was the first member of her generation in the family to be diagnosed with cancer, and yet she is the last surviving member of that generation.

Mildred was predeceased by her husband, Jack Clark and her sister, Elva Smith Blaser.  She is survived by her five nieces, one nephew and many grand-nieces and nephews and great-grand nieces and nephews.

Services and interment will be private.

Contributions in Mildred’s memory to Aldan Union Church, 7 E. Providence Road, Aldan, PA 19018 or to the Willowbrook Unit at Lima Estates, 411 N. Middletown Road, Lima, PA 19037.

Donations may be made to:

Willowbrook Unit at Lima Estates
411 N. Middletown Road, Media PA 19063

Aldan Union Church
7 E. Providence Road, Aldan PA 19018