May 25, 2022, 84, Goldsboro –
Hugh Mercer Clark, Sr., 84, passed away on Wednesday, May 25, 2022 at Wayne UNC Healthcare in Goldsboro. He was born in Nash County to the late Rance E. Clark, Sr. and Josephine Flood Clark on April 22, 1938. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Rance E. Clark, Jr.
Upon graduation from the school of pharmacy at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Hugh began his career as a pharmacist with Robinson Drug Store in Goldsboro. He followed this with a brief stint at Cherry Hospital before transitioning to the staff of O’Berry Center, serving as the Director of Pharmacy. Fulfilling his career with them, he retired as their Medical Director after 25 years of service. Contributing his knowledge to those in his community, he also served as president of the Wayne County Board of Pharmacy.
Along with partners Fred Shelby and Don Craft, the trio started their own business, “Yogi Bears Honey-Fried Chicken” in Goldsboro in 1968.
A member of the Goldsboro Jaycee’s for many years, Hugh was instrumental in establishing and continuing the work of the Jaycee Burn Center in Chapel Hill. Many friendships were established and nurtured through his membership in the Golden K Kiwanis of Goldsboro, and his work with the Goldsboro Elks Lodge #139 B.P.O.E. saw him in service as the past Exalted Ruler.
In times of leisure, you could most often find Hugh on the golf course with his friends or spending time at the beach. Surf fishing was a highlight of each beach trip, and you always knew him by the many items he carried with him on his cart.
The family will receive friends on Sunday, May 29, 2022 from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. at Seymour Funeral Home followed by a service to celebrate Hugh’s life at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel with Pastor Dan Baer officiating. A private interment will be held in Willow Dale Cemetery.
Hugh is survived by his wife of 25 years, Betsy Worrell Clark; sons, Richard M. Clark and wife, Denise, and Hugh Clark, Jr. and wife, Maria; step-son, Alfred Dean Harrell; grandchildren, Joshua Clark and wife, Cierra, and Jonah Clark; great-grandson, Asher Clark; sister, Betsy Williams and husband Roderick; and sister-in-law, Betty Clark.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in Hugh’s memory to St. Luke United Methodist Church, 1608 E. Pine Street, Goldsboro, NC 27530.
Services are entrusted in the care of Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.
