Gerald Wilson Clarke

Jerry was born on May 5, 1940 in Chicago, Illinois. He later spent much of his youth in Bethesda, Maryland, where he developed the character and discipline that would define his life. At the age of ten he sold the Washington Star Newspaper on a nearby street corner in Washington, D.C. Jerry received a private Catholic education attending the then all boys military school at St. John's College High School in Washington, D.C. He was a proud SJC Cadet and graduated with the class of 1958. Jerry's time a St. John's was marked by both leadership and spirit; he served as the morning prayer monitor, a cheerleader, and rose to the rank of Lieutenant within the military program. It was at SJC that he mastered his lifelong mantra: "Prior Planning Prevents Poor Performance" - the "Five P's" he would famously share for decades to come.

Jerry's professional career in broadcasting began early as an Information Specialist for WWDC Radio. His talent eventually led him to Arlington, Virginia, where he joined the Armed Forces Radio and Television Services (AFRTS). As a civilian for AFRTS, he traveled the world, ensuring military members stayed connected to home. A career spanning 34 years and 1 month, Jerry's excellence was recognized by receiving three Telly Awards.

Upon retiring in January 2003, he relocated to Sarasota, Florida. A man of generosity and a proud American, he held a deep love for his country and an even deeper curiosity for the world. Jerry was a grand storyteller" who could hold a room, whether he was discussing history, nature, or his latest state-of-the-art electronic gadget.

Jerry enjoyed playing poker with friends and watching classic movies. He was known as the "King of the Grill" and had a love for music that spanned every genre. He was a man who appreciated the "fine print" of life. He was a known stickler for details-especially when it came to grammar-and he took immense pride in being grammatically correct and proofreading his granddaughter Elizabeth's school papers and college essays.

Jerry is survived by daughters, Carol E. Clarke and Jennifer M. Matheson; sister, Catherine R.Seasonwein and cherished granddaughter, Elizabeth Marie Clarke, who brought constant joy to her Poppy.

He was preceded in death by sons, Michael J. Clarke and Andrew C. Clarke; sisters, Judith A. Levis, Margaret "Peggy" Lee Christoff and brother, Edmund L. Runge, Jr.

The family will honor Jerry's life privately.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to Jerry's beloved St. John's College High School, 2607 Military Road, NW, Washington, D.C. 20015.