Theda Lee Clarke, age 96, passed away peacefully on June 3, 2026, surrounded by her immediate family in Southaven, Mississippi.

Born on June 11, 1929, in Pocahontas, Arkansas, to Gola and Melissa Jackson, Theda was raised on a farm where she developed the strong work ethic and caring spirit that would define her life. She carried those values with her throughout her years as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend.

Theda was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James David Clarke; her parents, Gola Durell and Daisy Melissa Jackson; her sister, Charline Omega McCarroll; her brother, William (Jack) Thomas Jackson; and her daughter-in-law, Shelly Gail Clarke.

She is survived by her son, Paul David Clarke; her daughter, Theda Lee Clarke; her cherished granddaughters, Rachel Gail Clarke and Holly Paige Clarke; and her nieces and nephews, Vicki Wells, Susan Parsons, Bob McCarroll, Becky Bottrell, Mary Bradshaw, and Jerry McCarroll.

Throughout her life, Theda dedicated herself to caring for others. While her most important role was that of homemaker, she also served as a business administrator at Harding Academy and worked as a bookkeeper for Zoe Cosmetics. She approached every responsibility with diligence, integrity, and attention to detail.

A faithful member of Berclair Church of Christ, Theda’s faith guided her life and influenced the kindness she extended to everyone she met. She was known for her gentle spirit, kind heart, warm smile, and dry sense of humor. Family and friends will remember her as someone who was always willing to put the needs of others before her own.

Theda found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She loved baking and cooking for family and friends, challenging others to a game of Scrabble, and spending time watching her favorite television programs, including Wheel of Fortune and The Price Is Right. She also enjoyed traveling and embraced new adventures, celebrating her 80th birthday with her first trip overseas to the United Kingdom. An enthusiastic treasure hunter, she loved browsing thrift stores in search of unique finds. Theda was devoted to sharing her faith, teaching at Vacation Bible School and helping nurture the spiritual growth of countless children over the years. She also enjoyed crafts and sewing projects, always finding satisfaction in making something with her hands. Her home was a place of comfort, laughter, and love, where everyone felt welcomed and cared for.

Above all, Theda’s greatest legacy is the love she shared with her family. Her unwavering devotion, generosity, and compassionate nature left a lasting impact on those fortunate enough to know her. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her family and friends.

Visitation and funeral services will be held at Forest Hill Funeral Home & Memorial Park East, 2440 Whitten Road, Memphis, Tennessee on Monday, June 8th, 2026. Family and friends are invited to attend visitation from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., with the funeral service beginning at 10:00 a.m. Optional interment will immediately follow at Forest Hill Cemetery East.