MANNING - Sue Carol Darling Clark, age 65, died on February 10th after a remarkable struggle against pulmonary disease.
Sue was born in Gary, Indiana to George and Mable Darling, both of whom passed when she was young. Sue worked to pay her way through college and was the first in her family lineage to earn a degree. She taught in Indiana for 15 years before moving to South Carolina where she earned her Masters Degree in Education from USC. Sue taught elementary school in Clarendon County for 21 years before her health forced her to retire.
Survivors include three sisters and a brother, her daughter JamieSue Clark, of New York City, NY; her daughter-in-law Cherie McDonald,of Sumter, South Carolina; and four grand-children. Sue was preceded in death by her husband, Jim. The family would like to express deep gratitude to Sue's caregivers Deborah Metzger and Phyllis Owens whose love, humor, and companionship enriched Sue's last years.
Sue was dedicated to the enrichment of each of her students and she loved teaching. She received many teaching awards throughout her tenure, but was especially proud of the "Mary McLeod Bethune Recognition Award" where 390 of her past and present students voted her as the teacher with the most effect on their lives. Because education was Sue's passion, a scholarship fund for students interested in teaching is being created in Sue's name at the University of South Carolina, Columbia campus. More information is available at www.tinyurl.com/sueclark
In accordance with Sue's request, there will be no funeral services. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to "USC Educational Foundation,” mailed to University Of South Carolina, Office of Gift Processing, 1600 Hampton Street suite 736, Columbia SC 29208. Please specify in the memo “Sue Clark Inspired by Education Endowed Scholarship Fund”.
CONDOLENCES
I would just like to express my love to the family. And let them know they are in my prayers. Sue was a very sweet lady. I didn't know her very long. In the time being that I did, I fell in love with her as well as my mother. Sue fought and fought this battle. Now she's where she can breath freely, and not get out of breath when walking from one room to the next. I remember the first time I met Ms. Sue outside of school. I went to her home to drop her off some lunch--a hot dog from Sonic. and before I left she gave me these black boots, and her remarks were " If you don't like them you can tell me." Ever since she gave them to me, I can't keep them off my feet. Just like I will always have her on my mind. I realized meeting her was a blessing. Another person I got to share some of my life with and love. Ms. Sue while your'e in Heaven just remember I'm still wearing those shoes. I love you always and forever.
From: Jennifer Metzger
I was very sorry to hear of the passing of Ms. Clark, a former co-worker. Ms. Clark was a wonderful teacher whom I admired, and she had a great sense of humor. She will be missed dearly.
From: Elmira Capers-Robinson
I am so sorry. I owe a great deal of gratitude to Sue and already miss her. Her humor and love for her family was a wonderful thing to see on a day to day basis. The lake will never seem as pretty and serene without Sue there to point out all the things I would hurriedly miss.
Deborah Metzger
From: Deborah Metzger
I was one of Mrs. Sue's students a while back. She was such a beautiful and loving woman. She will be missed.
