Edward A. Clarke

Edward Clarke, a proud Boston native, Air Force Veteran, devoted family man, and beloved friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by love and cherished memories. Born on October 29, 1929, in Boston, MA, Edward was the son of Mildred Monthero Clarke and James Clarke.

Edward was educated through the Boston Public School system and later earned his Bachelor’s Degree from Syracuse University. He proudly served his country as a veteran of the United States Air Force during the Korean War, a commitment that reflected his strength, discipline, and dedication to others.

Following his military service, Edward worked faithfully as a Spinal Cord Technician at the West Roxbury Veteran Association, where he cared for and supported countless veterans with compassion and dignity.

Edward was married to the love of his life, Margaret L. Clarke, in Boston, Massachusetts. Together they built a life centered on family, laughter, and enduring love. Their bond remained strong until her passing on February 26, 2023.

Known for his unmatched sense of humor and larger-than-life personality, Edward brought joy wherever he went. Whether wearing one of his witty t-shirts, sharing jokes, or telling stories, he had a gift for making people smile. He enjoyed deep sea fishing, sports, cruising, traveling with family, gardening, home improvement projects before they became popular, casino trips, and especially puzzles—where he was known as an avid jigsaw puzzle wizard.

Edward also dedicated much of his time to serving others. He volunteered as a librarian at the Malden Senior Center and actively participated in Mass Senior Action meetings. He deeply enjoyed spending time with the staff and fellow seniors at the Community Family Adult Day Health Program in Medford, where his warmth and humor left lasting impressions on many.

Edward leaves to cherish his memory his loving daughter, Christina Anderson, and son-in-law Mark Anderson; his sisters, Ruthann Clarke and Mildred Shelburne along with her husband Ronald Shelburne Sr.; his beloved grandchildren Tyrique, Taryn, Kelly, Justine, Paul, and Jocelyn; and his treasured great-grandchildren Jordan, Craig, Sydney, Carrington, Simone, and Gabriel.

He is also lovingly remembered by his cousin Phyllis Littleford and her husband Roland Littleford, several nieces and nephews, and dear friends Elder Bernard Smith and Elder Cynthia Smith.

Edward was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Margaret L. Clarke; his son, Christopher Gibbs; his brothers Eugene “Sonny” Clarke, Alan Clarke Sr., and James Richard Lee “Dicky”; and his sisters Janice “Sister” Edmead and Amy Hood.

Edward Clarke’s legacy is one of laughter, service, resilience, and love. He touched countless lives through his kindness, wisdom, humor, and generous spirit. Though he will be deeply missed, his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

“Well done, thy good and faithful servant.”