Sallie Mae Clark

Sallie Mae Clark, passed away peacefully on September 17, 2026, in Wichita, Kansas, at the age of 89, surrounded by the love of her family. Born in Mojave, California, she lived a life defined by devotion to family, enduring friendships, quiet strength, and a generous heart.

Sallie was the daughter of Dewitt Clark and Hester (Gleason) Clark. She spent most of her school years in Eskridge, Kansas, and later graduated from Boone High School in Boone, Iowa. Throughout her life, she carried with her the values of hard work, kindness, and perseverance that shaped her character and touched all who knew her.

In 1955, Sallie married Leonard Parker. Though their marriage later ended in divorce, they remained good friends. She was later blessed to share many happy years with Russell Clark, her beloved partner and best friend. Together they built a life filled with companionship, laughter, and love.

Above all else, Sallie cherished her family. She lovingly raised her children, Melinda "Mindy" Clain and Kevin Parker, dedicating herself as a stay-at-home mother during their early years. When her children reached high school, Sallie earned her real estate license and worked alongside her father in his brokerage office. Sallie later retired as an Administrative Assistant with the Detective Division of the Wichita Police Department, where she was respected for her dedication and service. Even in retirement, her caring and nurturing spirit never faded. Affectionately known as "Grandma Sallie," she lovingly shared in helping care for her newborn granddaughter alongside Mamaw.

Sallie found joy in the simple and meaningful things in life. She was an accomplished seamstress and quilter whose handmade creations became treasured family heirlooms. She lovingly made wedding quilts for each of her children and a baby quilt for her granddaughter, Taryn. She enjoyed fishing with her father, creating ceramics, and spending time in the kitchen sharing her talents with family and friends. Those fortunate enough to enjoy one of her meals knew that she made what many considered the world's best cherry pie.

Her legacy lives on through the family she loved so deeply: her daughter, Mindy Clain and husband Terry Clain; her son, Kevin Parker; her granddaughter, Taryn Clain; her grandsons, Kody Truesdell and wife Becca, Ty Clain, and Todd Clain; and her great-grandchildren, Arianna Clain, Elyssa Clain, Mario Clain, Hudson Truesdell, Quentin Taurins, and Sienna Taurins. She also held a special affection for her favorite grand-pet, Daisy.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Dewitt Clark and Hester Clark; her sisters, Shirley Ann Clark and Marlys; her beloved partner, Russell Clark; and her cherished companion, Ed Maness.

Sallie will be remembered for her loving heart, gentle wisdom, unwavering dedication to her family, and the warmth she brought into every room she entered. Her hands created beautiful quilts, wonderful meals, and countless memories, but her greatest gift was the love she freely gave to those around her. She leaves behind a legacy woven with kindness, family, and enduring grace that will continue to comfort and inspire all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Meals on Wheels, a charitable cause chosen in her honor.

A Graveside Service will be held at Lakeview Cemetery, in the Garden of Apostles, 12100 E. 13th Street N., Wichita, Kansas 67206, on Friday, October 2, 2026, at 2:00 pm.