Zola Merlene Horton Clark, age 91, was called home to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on August 24, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with dementia. Graveside services will be held at 10:30 AM, Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at Lone Grove Cemetery, Lone Grove, Okla.

Merlene was born on October 14,1933, in Okemah, Oklahoma, to Lucille and Merle Horton. She attended Ardmore Public Schools until the summer before her senior year, when she met and married the love of her life, Don Clark. She transferred to Wilson Public School to graduate alongside him, embarking on a beautiful journey that would span nearly 74 years of marriage. They were married on September 16, 1951, at Grand Avenue Baptist Church, in Gainesville, Texas. Merlene was not only a faithful follower of Christ she was also a loving wife and mother of five. For seven decades, she was a dedicated pastor’s wife, pouring her heart into every church where she and her husband served. Her faith in Jesus was at the very core of her being.

Known for her warmth, kindness, and smile. Merlene was especially cherished for her nurturing spirit, often seen cooking and sharing meals with church members. Her sourdough cinnamon rolls became legendary, leaving a lasting impression on all who tasted them. Above all, Merlene treasured her family. She embraced her roles as a wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, Gigi, daughter, sister and aunt with unwavering love and dedication. Her legacy of faith, love, and compassion will continue to inspire all who knew her. She would often say, “you will miss me when I’m gone!’ She was right! “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” 2 Timothy 4:7.

She was preceded in death by her parents, sister, brother, daughter-in-law Lisa K Clark and beloved granddaughter Candace Anderson Ousley.

Merlene is survived by her husband, Don Clark, son, James Clark (Jackie), son, Joey Clark, daughter, Karen Anderson (Mike), son, Paul Clark (Brenda), daughter, Larissa Clark, a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and other relatives and beloved friends.

Those serving as pallbearers will be Chris Anderson, Michael Ousley, Jeff Clark, Shane Clark, Caleb Clark, Cody Clark, and Colin Clark.