Dorothy Clark

DOROTHY MAY CLARK was born Dorothy May Griffin on September 16, 1920 in the town of Fulton, in Howard County, Maryland. The daughter of Angeline (Addie) Griffin and Bernie Gibson, Dorothy grew up with her older sister Edna in Howard County and also on the Eastern Shore. Settling in Baltimore, Dorothy married Clarence Lyles in 1938, and together they had one daughter before the marriage eventually ended in divorce. Meanwhile, she had a second daughter who was stillborn and a tubal pregnancy that also ended sadly. By the 1950's she became Mrs. James W. Clark, but they also parted ways. Both husbands are deceased. Dorothy worked in housekeeping for many years. She was once employed by Baltimore Spice Company, and later worked in private homes until retiring in the 1980s. Despite modest means, she contributed greatly to making her family's house a loving home, even after her daughter and son-in-law assumed most responsibilities. Dorothy enjoyed her work at home for many years, sewing and making her own clothes, crocheting, painting, wallpapering, making other household decorations and repairs and flower and vegetable gardening (especially growing tomatoes and squash). She also enjoyed cooking, baking and making preserves, jellies and relish. In addition, Dorothy contributed to her grandson's education, walking him to elementary school when he was very young and later helping the family to support him into private school and college, and even making small donations to the schools after his graduation. Dorothy was also a devoted sister and daughter, caring for these relatives through their illnesses and last days in the 1970s and '80s. Sister Clark became a member of Evangelical Baptist Church, where she was adored by many. She was a faithful attendee until her mobility began to fail within the past few years. After recent weeks of declining health, she passed away peacefully at home on the morning of Thursday, January 8th at the officially registered age of 94, although it is believed she may have been as old as 97. Dorothy is survived by: her devoted daughter, Juanita Lyles Norwood and equally devoted son-in-law (the “son” she never gave birth to) Ross Norwood; one grandson, Brian Davis Lyles; one nephew, James Richard Jones; two great nephews, James Richard Jones, jr. and Charles Verselles; several distant relatives, and a host of caring friends and acquaintances.

Tributes

Dorothy Clark

September 16, 1920 - January 8, 2015