DeSoto Clark Sr

DeSoto Clark, Sr., a man of quiet wisdom and relentless work ethic, affectionately known as “Sote,” “Grandpa,” “Papa,” “Daddy,” and “Bae Brother,” peacefully entered his heavenly home on May 20, 2026, after 88 years of a life well lived.

DeSoto Sr. lived his life as an example of faith, perseverance, and unconditional love. Though soft-spoken in nature, his presence spoke volumes, and his kindness left lasting impressions on everyone he encountered.

Born to the union of Major and Ida Bell Clark in Lecompte, Louisiana, DeSoto Sr. was the eldest of their children. He spent his early years in Louisiana before moving to Texas at the age of 15, where he would later build a life centered around family, hard work, and devotion.

DeSoto Sr. was a gifted machinist who faithfully dedicated more than 30 years of service to Todd Shipyard and G & M Machine Shop. He worked tirelessly to provide for his family with pride and integrity. Outside of work, he found joy in life’s simple pleasures — cooking meals for his family, fishing, building with his hands through carpentry, swimming, and taking long bike rides. His smile was warm, his heart was joyful, and his love for family was unwavering.

In 1960, he married the love of his life, Earnestine Brow. Together they shared 64 beautiful years of marriage and raised five children. DeSoto Sr. and Earnestine often encouraged their children with the words, “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” — Philippians 4:13 With God all things are possible.

To know DeSoto Sr. was to experience patience, wisdom, laughter, and love. He cherished every gathering, every conversation, and every opportunity to spend time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His legacy is not only found in the years he lived, but in the lives he touched.

He leaves to treasure his precious memories: his five devoted children, Emery R. Williams, II (Evette), Wanda L. Price (Ronald), Annette Smith (Kevin), LaTina R. Hood (Leodis), and DeSoto Clark, Jr. (Annette); eight beloved grandchildren and ten adored great-grandchildren: Kaela Taylor, Kaden Clark, Darnell Smith, Emery Russell Williams, III (Nicole; children Emma and Evin), Erica Williams (children Cade, Chancellor, and Codie), Ronald D’Wayne Price (Jennifer; children Brielle, Trey, and Jayven), Chelsi Mariah Price (child Haven), and Elexis Williams (children Emier and Ermani); along with a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever hold him close in their hearts.

DeSoto Sr. was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Earnestine Clark; his parents, Major and Ida Bell Clark; his sisters, Rose Davis, Josephine Kimble, and Agnes Johnson; and his brothers, Clarence Clark and Jimmie Clark.

Though our hearts are heavy, we rejoice in knowing that his race has been won, his labor is finished, and his soul now rests peacefully in the arms of the Lord.