Deacon Marvin D. Clark

**Marvin Darnell Clark**

*February 13, 1956 – August 9, 2024*

Marvin Darnell Clark was born in Newark, New Jersey, on February 13, 1956, to the late Ezra O. Clark and Mary Beale Clark. On August 9, 2024, Marvin peacefully transitioned at Morristown Medical Center in Morristown, NJ, surrounded by his beloved family. Marvin dedicated 25 years of his life to the Union Township Board of Education before retiring. Following his retirement, he continued to serve his community as a crossing guard for the Union Police Department. Marvin’s life was rooted in faith; he accepted Christ at a young age and later became a member of Aenon Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Alphonso Williams Sr. Over the years, Marvin actively served on various auxiliary boards, including the Usher Board, Men’s Ministry, and Men’s Choir. In April 1997, Marvin was ordained as a Deacon, and in 2008, he rose to the position of Chairman of the Deacon Board, a role he held with dedication until his passing. A graduate of Newark Tech, Class of 1974, Marvin met the love of his life, Joanne Little, in 1987. The couple shared 32 beautiful years of marriage, parenting three children: Chantia McGregor (Tony), Brian K. Little II (Yasmeen Medina), and their baby girl , Kendall Brianna Clark. Marvin was a pillar of the community, known and loved by all who crossed his path. His generous spirit, dedication to the youth, and warm, infectious smile earned him the affectionate nicknames of “Big Marv,” “Uncle Marv,” and “Coach.” He was also a renowned jokester who brought joy and laughter to everyone around him. An avid sports fan, Marvin’s loyalty to the Giants, Lakers, and Mets was unmatched. On any given Sunday, you could find him proudly wearing his team gear, complete with jackets, hats, gloves, pajamas, and even an Ervin “Magic” Johnson doll. Marvin was predeceased by his parents, Ezra and Mary Clark; two brothers, William Beale and Lorenzo Beale; and four sisters, June Rogers (Samuel), Gloria Lewis, Martha Beale, and Galinda Clark. He leaves behind to cherish his memory his devoted wife, Joanne Little Clark, and his three children: Chantia McGregor of Rahway, NJ; Brian K. Little II of Summit, NJ; and Kendall Brianna Clark of Vauxhall, NJ and bonus daughters Natisha Jackson and Natasha Hargrove. He is also survived by six grandchildren: Donald Smith Kennedy, Amirah McGregor, Murad McGregor, Yakidah Clark, Brian K. Little III, and Leila Little; three great-grandchildren: Dymirah Smith Kennedy, Josiah Ndiaye, and Ava Ndiaye; his brother Ronnie Clark (Cindy); and two sisters, Lois Beale and Brenda Clark. Marvin also leaves behind one brother-in-law, William Terrell (Toni); one sister-in-law, Sandra Terrell Wilson (Bobby); one aunt, Ozella Coplan; four godchildren: Cemia Koon, Maelyn Harris, Dallas Tullis, and Bryce Montgomery; along with a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends. Marvin's legacy of love, faith, and service will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.