IN LOVING MEMORY OF ROBERT STRATHER CLARK, JR. (1948 -2024)

by | Mar 22, 2024 | 0 comments

OCT 23 1948 – MAR 19 2024

Robert Strather Clark, Jr., affectionately known as Robbie, passed away in McKinney, Texas on March 19, 2024.  He was born in McKinney on October 22, 1948, to Robert Strather Clark Sr. (Bob) and Runie Marie Clark. He leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and community that will forever be cherished by those who knew him.

Robbie’s devotion to his family was unwavering. He is survived by his wife, Karen Clark; daughters Janet Clark-Sela and husband Nir Sela of McKinney, Jennifer Clark McCorkle and husband Jason McCorkle of Houston, Shanel Butler of Leakey, and Kendyl Clark of Plano; granddaughters Zoe Cobbel, Taylor Butler, and Mia Cobbel; sister, Linda Spears and husband, Bill of Houston, Texas. As well as numerous nieces, nephews, and other family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bob and Runie Clark; In-Laws, Don and Glenn Clark; Brother-in-Laws, Ronnie Bell and Jerry Clark; and niece, Jodi Hess.

Throughout his life, Robbie was deeply committed to his community. He made a mark in McKinney’s history as the quarterback of the 1966 McKinney Lions State Finalist Team. His dedication to McKinney continued as he became a successful businessman, following in his parents’ footsteps, who owned a Western Auto store in Downtown McKinney. Robbie’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish thriving businesses, including founding Metro Linen and Clark’s Premier Cleaners. After selling the cleaners, he partnered to own the FBO of the McKinney airport. After serving on the Board of Directors for Legacy Texas Bank for many years, he was hired by Legacy Texas (now Prosperity Bank) where he spent over 15 years as the McKinney Market President to help mentor other businesses and entrepreneurs follow his path of success.

Robbie’s service to his community extends beyond business endeavors. He served on various boards: Trustee of the McKinney School Board, where he was elected President, McKinney Planning and Zoning, McKinney EDC, Park Board, and Vice President of McKinney Alliance & Board Chairman of the McKinney Chamber of Commerce. He also enjoyed serving his community by volunteering with Meals on Wheels and Habitat for Humanity. Robbie was honored with the McKinney Chamber of Commerce’s Carey Cox Citizen of the Year award in 2020, a testament to his lifelong dedication to serving McKinney. He exemplified the values of compassion, generosity, and selflessness, inspiring all who knew him to follow his example.

In Robbie’s passing, McKinney has lost a true champion, but his spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of those fortunate enough to know him. He will be remembered fondly for his kindness, leadership, and unwavering commitment to making his community a better place. 

A memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, March 23, 2024, at First United Methodist Church of McKinney 315 North Church Street, McKinney, Texas 75069, with a reception to follow.

In his memory, donations can be made to Frio Canyon EMS, P.O. Box 803, Leakey, Texas 78873, or to St. Jude.

Memorial Service

03/23/202410:00 a.m.

First United Methodist Church315 North Church Street, McKinney, Texas 75069