Deborah P. Clark, 96, of Concord, died peacefully at home on April 12, 2024, surrounded by the love of family.
She was born in Newburyport on February 22, 1928, daughter of the late Donald Perry and Lois Forbes, and raised in St. Cloud, Minnesota, and Cambridge. She attended Concord Academy, then a gap year in Lausanne, Switzerland, and spoke proficient French.
Deborah loved to sing and performed in the alto section of Sweet Adelines, the Concord Women’s Chorus, and First Parish Choir. Her home was never without a family dog, and her precious Juneau was her constant companion until the end of her life. She loved the outdoors and climbed mountains, hiked hills, and traveled with her beloved husband of 55 years, Victor Clark, to every continent except Asia. She inherited a deep love of Mt. Washington from her husband, and passed that love on to the next generations.She loved equally the seacoast of York, Maine. Deborah was also a competitive tennis and ping-pong player.
Deborah was an avid reader, encouraging others to support their local library, and often told her loved ones they would “never be bored if they read books.” Through her 90s, she continued to build her vocabulary and watch her favorite game show, “Jeopardy.” Deborah led by example to have an inquisitive mind and be open to new things. The town of Concord and the First Parish held a special place in her heart.
Deborah’s flair for color and design could be seen in her homes, her soups and casseroles appreciated, and attention to detail of others’ lives who visited her was remarkable. Her counsel to “think of others, welcome newcomers to your neighborhood and community, and make lemons out of lemonade” will be deeply missed.
Deborah is survived by four children: Tor Clark (and Robin Singer); Jocelyn Clark (and John Bennett); Hilary Clark; Kim Clark (and Therese); eight grandchildren: Lucas; Nina (and Matt); Alexandra (& Dave); Victor (and Jacinda); Talia; Tyler (and Preethi); Sarah and Skyler; and two great-grandchildren, Eli and Eleanor.
A Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, August 17 at 2 p.m. at First Parish, 20 Lexington Road.
In lieu of flowers, those who wish may contribute in Deborah’s memory to Salem Animal Rescue League, 4 SARL Drive, Salem, NH 03079 (www.sarlnh.org). Condolences may be sent to 29 Munroe Place, Concord, MA 01742.
Arrangements are entrusted to Dee Funeral Home & Cremation Service. For her online guestbook, visit www.DeeFuneralHome.com.
