Reed Paige Clark III

Reed was the son of Reed Paige Clark II, a distinguished Foreign Service Officer, and Jeanne Bertrand Clark. From the moment of his birth—marked by a difficult delivery that left him partially paralyzed—Reed’s life was defined by resilience, grace, and quiet determination. While home base was in Londonderry, New Hampshire, he spent his early years traveling the globe, living in diplomatic posts across Europe and Canada, before settling in Washington, DC.

Reed attended Georgetown Preparatory School as a boarding student in the seventh grade, where he found his home away from home. Despite physical challenges, he excelled socially, athletically, and academically, graduating second in his class and forming lifelong friendships. After graduation, he remained an active alumnus for life and held several leadership roles there including President of the Georgetown Prep Alumni Association and President of the Father’s Club. Reed continued his education at Georgetown University, earning a degree that prepared him for a career in public service.

Reed poured his energy into a distinguished 37-year career at the U.S. Department of State, rising through the ranks in the Consular Affairs Division. He played key roles in major international events, including the Iran Hostage Crisis and the Jonestown tragedy, always approaching his work with compassion and integrity. Reed earned multiple awards and distinctions, including the “Disabled Employee of the Year” for the entire federal government—a testament to his perseverance and dedication.

Reed met the love of his life, Phyllis Straub, at the Catholic Club in Washington, DC. After a persistent courtship, Phyllis said “yes,” and together they built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and purpose. Married for nearly sixty-five years until Phyllis’ death in July 2025, they raised five children and created a home rooted in faith, service, and unconditional love.

Reed is survived by his five children and their spouses:

Bill Clark and his wife, Michele

Jerry Clark and his wife, Diane

Jeanne Baxter and her husband, Jim

Steve Clark and his wife, Maricy

Rob Clark and his wife, Jennifer

Reed was a proud grandfather to 17 grandchildren: DJ, Jack, Caroline, Katie, Sean, Kevin, Justin, Riley, Lille, Courtney, Natalie, Julia, Stephen Daniel, Cassidy, Connor, Tommy, and Luke. He is also survived by one great-grandchild, Rachel Clark, whose presence brought him immense joy in his later years.

In retirement, Reed and Phyllis moved back to the ancestral family home in Londonderry, New Hampshire, where Reed became a beloved figure in the community. He was a dedicated member of the Rotary Club, the Taxpayer’s Association, and numerous civic organizations—never missing a chance to give back to his beloved hometown. In recent years, Reed and Phyllis moved back to Washington, DC to spend the final phases of their lives closer to family.

Reed’s life was a testament to his grit, resilience, and unwavering faith. He believed deeply in service—to his country, his community, and most of all, his family. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the example he set.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Jude Church in Londonderry, NH at 10am on Saturday, November 1, followed by a reception at The Coach Stop Restaurant. In addition, there will be a Memorial Mass held at Georgetown Prep in Our Lady of Lourdes Chapel on Saturday, December 6th at 11am. In lieu of flowers, donations in Reed Clark’s memory may be made to the Rotary Club of Londonderry, NH, https://givebutter.com/ps8Vqp.

If you would like to send flowers for the Funeral Mass in NH, please contact Countryside Florist, (603) 432-4110 and at https://www.countrysidefloristnh.com/

If you would like to send flowers for the Memorial Mass in MD, please contact Hoover Fisher Florist, (301) 593-4700 and at https://www.hooverfisherflorist.com/

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to all who have supported them with prayers, love, and remembrance during this time.

May his enduring spirit continue to guide us. Carry on!