Barbara Loraine Messer Clark, wife of the late William “Bill” Wells Clark, Jr., passed away on February 28th, 2023.
She was born in Lake City, Iowa, on August 19, 1929, and was the daughter of the late R. Ruth Messer and Roy T. Messer; she was also predeceased by her husband of nearly seventy years William “Bill” Wells Clark, Jr.
Barbara grew up in Ames, Iowa. She attended George Washington University and then Iowa State College, where she graduated with a degree in Fabrics from the Home Economics department. She met Bill while in College. Following college, she moved to Falls Church, Virginia, and worked for the United States State Department until her marriage to Bill in 1953.
Barbara was an excellent clothing designer and seamstress, an accomplished quilter, skilled gardener, and a wonderful cook.
She enjoyed playing the piano and traveling. One of Barbara’s favorite destinations was Bermuda, where they visited on their honeymoon and several anniversaries, including their 50th anniversary.
Barbara is survived by her brother Don Messer, seven nieces and nephews, Keri Millward and husband Cody, Brett Messer and wife Patsy, Lyn Stolworthy and her husband Jess, Mary Coffin and her husband Peter, William Brackett and wife Marie, Robert Brackett and wife Deborah, and Margaret Hafer and husband Lance.
Barbara will be inurned at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.
Memorials contributions may be made to St. James Episcopal Church, 766 N. Main Street, Hendersonville, North Carolina, 28792, or a charity of your choice.
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