Dorothy was born in Blue Ridge, Texas, to Horace and Audrey Truelove. The oldest of five children, and being the only girl, she had lots of experience “teaching” her brothers thus preparing for a career in education. She married J.W. Clark on February 17, 1945 and worked in several businesses in Farmersville. She and J.W. owned and operated a sandwich shop on the square. Children Brenda, and Randy were in elementary school when Dorothy decided she wanted to be a teacher; attending East Texas State University (now Texas A&M Commerce) she earned a bachelor’s degree in education as well as a master's degree in special education along with an administrative certification. After teaching first grade in Farmersville ISD for several years, she was named director of the Collin County Special Education Co-op traveling to surrounding districts and offering special education support. When the principalship became available at Tatum Elementary in Farmersville ISD, Dorothy accepted it with great pride and joy and remained there until her retirement in 1990.
Dorothy is preceded in death by her loving husband, J.W. Clark in 2013. Surviving her four younger brothers, she remained strong until the past couple of years. She was a member of the First Baptist Church of Farmersville and active member of the Farmersville Historical Society.
She is survived by her children, Brenda Duckett and Randy Clark, two granddaughters: Lauren Bostwick and husband Barrett and their six children; Bryson Clark, Lila, Halle, Sutter, Noelle, and Rowan; and Keli Strahm and husband Travis and their two sons Nolan and Wesley Clark. She gained two bonus granddaughters when Brenda and Burt wed in 1993: Joy Pickering and husband Grover and their two children Alison and Will and Christy Redmond and husband Andy and their daughters Madeline and Claire. Yes, that’s twelve great grandchildren! Dorothy will be remembered for her beautiful smile, gently ways, her love of family and the Lord.
Special thanks to caregivers Annie, Debra, Deanna and Mary whose loving and attentive care allow her to remain in her beloved home until her passing.
Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church of Farmersville or charity of choice
A memorial service will be held at the First Baptist Church of Farmersville at 1:00pm Monday, February 7, 2022.