Barbara A. Clark, 84, of Lewes, was born the eighth of 12 children to the late Nelson and Iris Wright Jan. 28, 1942. She departed this life Saturday, July 4, 2026, at Christiana Hospital in Newark.

Barbara was educated at the Rabbit’s Ferry School from grades one through six under the tutelage of Miss Hilda Norwood, after which she attended William C. Jason Comprehensive High School in Georgetown from grade seven through 12th grade. She proudly earned and achieved her high school diploma while being raised on a small farm and helping with the necessary chores of a large farm family.

Barbara’s favorite subject was home economics, taught by Mrs. Delores Norwood Handy and Mrs. Reba Hollingsworth. She developed a love for sewing, and made clothing for herself and her little sister. She later became an avid quilter and took classes in Dover for several years.

Barbara met and married John W. Clark III. From this union came Bryan L. Clark, Latrina R. Clark and Karen Y. Clark. Barbara worked for a while at National Cash Register Company in Millsboro and later became a full-time housewife and homemaker. Together, they decided that it was more economical for Jack to bring home the bacon, and she would cook it up to feed their family, plus the 22 others whom they brought into their home as foster children, whom they loved, molded and cared for as if they were their own.

She later became the main caregiver for her then-aging parents with the help of her siblings. But it was understood that she was the boss. She did whatever she had to do to ensure their welfare and comfort until they departed from this earth.

“Sissie,” as her parents, siblings, cousins and close friends affectionately called her, was a strong woman with a determination to take care of family and to make sure her children were well educated, no matter the sacrifice. She was an active member of both Israel United Methodist Church and Friendship United Methodist Church until her health began to fail.

Barbara was predeceased by her parents, five brothers, William N., Daniel F., Nelson Jr., Robert E. and Howard C.; two sisters, Wilda Yvonne and Anna F.; and her beloved daughter, Latrina R.

She is survived by her devoted and loving husband of 65 years, John W. Clark III (Jack); son, Bryan L. Clark and his wife Shorel of Lewes; daughter, Karen Y. Clark-Lowman of Georgetown; seven grandchildren, Lindsey Clark of Glenolden, Pa., Jordan Clark and twin sister, Jeanae Clark, both of Newark, Donshea Collins-Clark, stationed at Pax River, Md., Destiny Massey (Travis) of Mooresville, N.C., and Erica Reese and Brittany Reese of Lewes; one great-grandson, Brayden John Nickelson of Lewes; three foster sons, Hameen Ali, Ronel Ayers and Dwyane Brown; two brothers, Lester D. (Michele) and Dallas R. (Leolga), both of Millsboro; two sisters, Phyllis Stallings and Patsy Wright, both of Lewes; a very spoiled and well-loved Dalmatian, Pepper; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.

Barbara’s homegoing celebration will be held at 3 p.m., Sunday, July 12, at Harmony United Methodist Church, 27270 John J. Williams Hwy., Millsboro, with the viewing beginning at 2 p.m. The Rev. Janice D. Herman will officiate. There will be a private interment held at Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, consider sharing your time, talents, and/or treasures with a favorite local charitable organization.

Professional services provided by Short Funeral Services of Milton.

Online condolences may be shared at shortfuneralservicesandcremation.com.