Harris David Clark

Harris Clark was the quintessential country boy: a simple man with homegrown values. No-nonsense practicality was his style. He believed in a handshake deal and that a man was only as good as his word. He had three true loves: his faith, his family, and his country. Often he could be found watching the L.A. Dodgers, Memphis Tigers basketball, Fox News, or Lone Ranger reruns. Many mornings were spent solving the Commercial Appeal puzzles while eating Cheerios drizzled with honey. When you encountered Harris, two things were guaranteed: he would greet you with “Mornin’,” no matter the time of day, and you wouldn’t leave without having a good conversation.

Born in Fayette County on July 26, 1942, Harris was the youngest of four children. After high school he attended Memphis State University, where he earned a degree in mathematics. On July 28, 1965, he married his soulmate, Erma Privitt. They built a simple, happy life and were soon blessed with two children.

In the early 1980s Harris moved his family to Bartlett, where they joined Ellendale Baptist Church. He served as a deacon and was active in the men’s and sports ministries. For many years his Saturday ritual was to venture out to “the country,” returning to the place where he grew up in Fayette County to maintain the property and visit his father and aunt in the local nursing home. During the autumn months he enjoyed time in deer stands and on the trail of turkeys and squirrels.

After his retirement from MLG&W in 1994, Harris spent his days raising his granddaughter, Shelley, who would eventually become his adopted daughter.

Harris is preceded in death by his parents, his daughter, Pamela Barnes, and his wife, Erma. Survivors one son and daughter-in-law, Ray and Rhonda Clark of Bartlett. One daughter and son-in-law, Shelley and Brandon VanHooser. Two granddaughters, Ashley Clark, and Sasha Lauren Esparza. Three grandsons, Ryan Clark, Andrew Miller, and Alex Gailor. Lastly, the three great-grandsons, David, Christian, and Noah, and one great-granddaughter, Rebekah.

In lieu of flowers, we ask that donations be made in Erma’s memory to the Ellendale Baptist Church or Redemption Church. Contributions can be made online at https://www.ebcbartlett.org/ or https://redemptionmem.churchcenter.com/home.