Minister Bruce Richard Clark
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Minister Bruce Richard Clark, Sr. 71, of Willingboro, NJ departed this side of Jordan on Tuesday, April 20, 2021 in Willingboro after a long-term illness. He became the second born to Otis Lee Sr. and Claudine Juanita Floyd in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on August 6, 1949. At a young age Bruce accepted Christ into his life and was baptized.
Bruce attended Philadelphia public schools and graduated from West Philadelphia High with honors. Upon graduation, Bruce was offered numerous scholarships including $50,000 from Coke Cola Company as part of the string chamber quartet. Next, this Philadelphia native matriculated at Temple University. While attending Temple University he studied Music Theory, Classic Guitar, and earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music and Early Childhood Education.
As an undergraduate student Bruce took on a summer job for the Philadelphia Board of Education, 1965 as a part time teacher assistance. Once completing his studies at Temple University, Bruce was promoted to full time teacher and later became a director of Philadelphia's Head Start program. In 2009, Bruce joined the retiring era of education after serving for over 44 years.
On August 25, 1973 Bruce married Jean L. Watts of Philadelphia at St. Ignatius Roman Catholic Church, Philadelphia, Pa. The two met at Martha Washington Elementary School in grade six. This was the start of the two becoming "an item." For the two people who met in grade six, how ironic they became a family of six! Angela (Angel), Bruce Jr. (Richie), Kevin (Kev), and Claudine (Dina.)
As the family began to grow, so did the couples desire to relocate. There was disappointment after disappointment. However, after praying for God to open the door of His choice the family relocated to Willingboro, NJ. "Knock and the door…" was opened to meet the late Deacon Eddie and Deaconess Doretha Campbell of Tabernacle Baptist Church, Burlington, NJ with the late Rev. Richard W. Jones. This new found friendship resulted in the Clark Family casting their lots at TBC. As an active member Bruce served as the Minister of Music, Licensed Minister, Deacon, Sunday School Teacher, Quest Outreach, and the list continues.
Bruce at times has been referred to as "The Music Man," and rightfully so. His first concert took place at the age of 3 as a violinist. He was gifted with the ability to play violin, organ, Spanish guitar, and more. His creative itch led him to continue ministering through music with several singing groups one being Rapture. Later, Bruce released a solo album, Solitude produced by LGR Records.
"Jesus You are the Center of My Joy" was his favorite song and a reminder, Jesus is the center.
Bruce leaves to cherish his memories wife, Jean L. Clark, children Angela (Joel) Toney, Bruce R. Clark, Jr. (Loria), Kevin (Filomenia) Clark, Claudine (Gary) Nelson, 13 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren, 3 godchildren, 2 sister-in-laws, 2 brother-in-laws, several nieces and nephews, longtime friends and confidant Rev. Timothy Hutton and Juanita Williams, plus extended family and friends. Bruce is preceded in death by Claudine Clark-Hicks (mother), Otis Lee Clark, Sr. (father), and Otis Lee Clark, Jr. (brother.)
Celebration of the life of Minister Bruce R. Clark Sr. will be held 11am Monday, April 26, 2021 at the Tabernacle Baptist Church, 150 E. Second Street, Burlington, NJ. Family and friends may view from 10am until time of service. Interment: Lakeview Memorial Park, Cinnaminson, NJ. Professional service and ministry of comfort provided by the TL Hutton Family & Friends Funeral Services, Burlington, NJ