The Passing of

William "Billy" Clark

Posted on June 29, 2025 [Updated July 3rd]

Dear Family,

It is with a heavy heart that we share the news that our beloved Great Grandfather, Grandfather, Father, Brother, Uncle, and Cousin, William "Billy" Clark, passed away on June 29, 2025, at around noon. He was 93 years old.

One of the things Billy was known for was his love of knowledge and his proprietorship of a local shoe shop, Akron Shoe Repair, in Ohio for many years. This was a profession he continued from his father. Also he was among the first Black American student who graduated from Polytechnic High School (Baltimore, MD) - in the 1950s.

We are deeply saddened by this loss, but we are also grateful for the time we had with him and the memories we now hold even more dearly.

Details about services are listed below. Please keep Billy's immediate family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

Warm regards,

MCD Reunion Leadership

Funeral Services Announcement for William "Billy" Clark

Details for the arrangements for
William "Billy" Clark:

Condolences and Contacts:

If you would like to send sympathy cards to Billy's family, we have more information. Please keep the entire family in your prayers today and in the upcoming days.

He is survived by Louise Clark (Wife), and (Children) Maria Lousie Clark Harris (deceased 4/16/20), William "Buddy" Clark, III, Martin Clark (Grandchildren) Hadass Kurowicki, and Alexander Harris (Christina Ivey-Harris); (Great Grandchildren) Jayden, Xander, and Elizabeth Kurowicki; Cassius Santiago; Edyn, Elijah, and Ester Cook, and Anneya and Deacon Harris.

Condolences can be sent to

Mrs. Louise Clark
1523 Pilgrim Street
Akron OH 44305

Baltimore Polytenic School Integration in 1952

This is where Poly was housed 1913 to 1967 in Baltmore, MD

The story of integrating Baltimore Polytechnic Institute(Poly) is a significant chapter in the broader narrative of school desegregation in the United States, particularly in the context of the "separate but equal" doctrine.

In 1952, Poly became the first high school in Baltimore to racially integrate its student body, marking a crucial step before the landmark Brown v. Board of Education decision. Willam (with his younger brother, Carl Clark) played a key role, and among the first group of 15 students to graduate from Poly in the following years starting in 1954. This integration was not without challenges, as it involved navigating legal battles, overcoming resistance, and addressing the unique academic needs of the newly integrated students.

We are extremely proud of his role in the change in our nation's history. You can learn about this event in Baltimore history at https://www.mdhistory.org/a-thorny-path-school-desegregation-in-baltimore/ and Carl's 2001 interview: https://www.mdhistory.org/resources/carl-clark-interview/

Scenes from the Services

Services:

Here's the information on Uncle Bill's homegoing service on Tuesday, July 8, 2025. Services will be held at Visitation of Mary Parish, located at 55 Broad St, Akron, Ohio 44305.

The calling hours (Visitation) will be from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, and the service will be from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm. He is being cremated, so there will not be any graveside service. The repast will follow the service in the church Hall.

Page updated

Google Sites