Frank Earl Clark

Frank Earl Clark, 72, of Pensacola, Florida passed away on Friday, September 20th, at Sacred Heart Hospital. Frank, known to family and friends as “Earl” or “Bootie” was born October 16, 1940 in Geneva, Alabama. He was the son of the late Edward and Martha “Big Momma” Clark. He was a devoted and loving husband, father, and grandfather. He was good humored, quick witted, and a strong willed man. He ruled with an iron fist and loved with a golden heart. His word was his honor, and he lived by the Marine Corps code. Earl married his High School sweetheart, Neva. After dating as teenagers and parting ways, they were fortunate to find each other again as adults. Earl and Neva spent 31 wonderful years together. In his spare time he enjoyed crossword puzzles, watching baseball games, and reminiscing with his grandson about his childhood and his time spent in the military. In 1960 he enlisted in the Marine Corps. During the Vietnam War he was with Mike Co. 3/5 from December 1966 until November 1967. He was a Sergeant, serving as a Machine Gun Section Leader, Weapons Platoon Sergeant, and 2nd Platoon Sergeant. He participated in Operations DeSoto, Union 1, Union 11, and several others. In Nov. ’67, he was transferred to Security Platoon, Hqs. Co., Headquarters Battalion, providing security around the Command Bunker at Freedom Hill. After serving three tours in Vietnam, he rotated back to the States in January of 68. He continued on to serve a total of 16 years and attained the rank of Staff Sergeant. During his military career, he received multiple Purple Hearts and was recognized with numerous medals. He was a proud Marine and was honored to serve his country. He regarded his time in the service as one of his finest accomplishments. SEMPER FI. He was preceded in death by his loving parents, beloved sisters, Nell Jerkins, Fay Stevens and brothers, Charles Clark and Jim Clark. He leaves behind to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Neva “Baby” Clark; his four children, Gregory Wayne Clark, Pamela Irby, Tina Moore, and his Baby girl Desiree Reiner; 10 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; nephews, nieces, and extended family. Funeral services will be at 2:00pm on Wednesday, September 25, 2013 at Faith Chapel Funeral Home South with Reverend Bill Flannigan officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. FAITH CHAPEL FUNERAL HOME SOUTH, 100 Beverly Parkway, Pensacola, FL is in charge of arrangements. You may express your condolences online at www.fcfhs.com.

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Frank Earl Clark

October 16, 1940 - September 20, 2013