Helen Marie Clark

Helen Marie Clark, 99, of Marion, Illinois, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, at the home of her daughter, Marsha, on August 26, 2026. She lived a long, joyful, and wonderful life, proudly looking forward to reaching her 100th birthday.

Helen was born on September 20, 1926, in Marion, Illinois, the daughter of Regent David “R.D.” Reach and Ollie Mae (Ashworth) Reach.

Helen married her beloved husband, William “Bill” Clark, on October 19, 1946. They shared 71 years of marriage until his death on March 6, 2018. They loved to travel together.

Helen worked for General Telephone as an operator for 20 years. At home, Helen loved to sew, garden, work puzzles, and especially spend time with her family. Marsha, her grandchildren, and her great-grandchildren, who lovingly called her “Meme,” brought her great joy. Her loss will be deeply felt by many.

Survivors include her daughter, Marsha (Jack) McCormick; three grandchildren, Matthew Vaughn, Courtney (Brandon) Vaughn, and Luke (Maddi) McCormick; eight great-grandchildren, Ryleigh, Mia, Malik, and Maverick Vaughn, Addison Vaughn Childers and Holden Childers, and Jett and Nash McCormick; a sister-in-law, Alice Reach; a brother-in-law, Harold Bell; and several nieces and nephews who held a special place in her heart.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Van A. Reach; and three sisters, Aileen McKeighen, Gladys Philips, and Pat Brasher.

Helen was of the Baptist faith.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, at Rose Hill Cemetery in Marion, Illinois, with Pastor Todd Greiner officiating.

Blue Funeral Home was entrusted with the funeral arrangements under the direction of Binkley-Ross.

Please visit binkley-ross.com to leave condolences online for the family.