James Richard Clark

James “Jimmy” Richard Clark passed away unexpectedly from cardiac arrest on July 4th, 2024 at his home with his wife, Mikella Rutter Clark and two beloved dogs, Abe and Sadie. Mr. Clark was the son of Jim and Helen Clark of Lilburn, Georgia.

Jimmy will be remembered for his dry wit and observational humor,  his deep love for animals, and his unyielding loyalty to the ones he loved.  Jimmy will be thought of fondly by those who knew him for always being ready with a reality check or a joke. He certainly knew how to bring levity or perspective when life threw curveballs and always seemed to hold an independent worldview that he never let others tarnish.

Jimmy was a loving son, brother, uncle, and husband. Though he wasn’t one to overly verbalize his love, his acts of service and selflessness towards his family spoke volumes. Jimmy was notably humble, much preferring to remain in the background supporting in whatever way he could- content to help others shine. He had an enviable knack for decisiveness- confidently executing with speed, precision and confidence, yet another testament to a keen sense of self awareness that drew many to him.

Jimmy was a lifelong Atlanta Braves fan, a love shared with his parents and siblings since childhood. He was an avid music lover with diverse musical tastes. He even had his own killer dance moves and a beautiful voice- though, you’d have to come to his living room to experience those. He loved stand-up comedy, and appreciated anyone who held a comedic lens up to the world- seemingly charmed by just how weird and funny life could be.

In his work life, Jimmy was committed to excellence, as a major goal in life was to dutifully provide for those he loved. He was admired by his colleagues for being a true friend in the workplace and always being willing to help where needed. His Bachelors of Arts in English Literature and Masters in English Education from Georgia State provided him with many of the skills he valued in his work and private life. He was very proud to be a Georgia State Panther.

Jimmy is survived by his wife, Mikella Rutter Clark; his parents, Jim and Helen Clark; his sister Christine (Clark) Marigliani; his brother Paul Clark and his wife, Tori; his nephews, Lucas Marigliani, Jackson Clark and Ryder Clark and a niece, Bella Marigliani.

Jimmy was preceded in death by his grandparents, David Clark, Ruth (Merritt) Clark, Arthur Lovelace, Ruth (Marks) Lovelace, and his best four-legged friend, Luke.

Jimmy loved animals and his ability to connect with them was uncanny. Jimmy spent countless hours fostering dogs as well as lovingly adopting three rescue dogs of his own: Luke, Abe, and Sadie. As a part of his legacy and to honor his work as an animal rescue volunteer, the family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Trooper’s Treasures in Chattanooga, Tennessee to continue their tireless efforts to provide every animal with safety and comfort.  Donations can be made via this link: https://www.trooperstreasures.com/donate Please include “Jimmy Clark” in the memo.

Details of Jimmy’s memorial will be provided to friends and family when arrangements have been confirmed. Thank you for loving Jimmy so well.

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