Westminster Presbyterian Church, downtown Dayton, was nicely filled with family and invited friends who were gathered to remember and celebrate the extraordinary life of Jeff Clark.

I’m still astounded by what Jeff managed to accomplish in just under twenty-five years as a choir director, show choir director, musical theatre director, clinician, adjudicator, and arranger. Yet, I’m not all that surprised. I met Jeff as a Fairmont High School freshman in 1994 and it was only a matter of time before he began to demonstrate what he could do and where he was heading.

For almost thirty years, I witnessed Jeff’s remarkable journey. I personally felt the rippled rings from the pebbles he often cast into the waters of life and observed how those waves touched thousands of lives. Oh, to have been a student under Mr. Clark and to experience the day-to-day passion he lovingly shared.

The music was beautiful, and the minister’s message was tender and poignant; I could listen to it, again. Then there was the slide show produced by his sister, Danielle, who was one of my third grade elves for the Christmas 1994 production. The photos were touching, especially those that showed Uncle Jeff with his two nephews. Having been blessed with several doting uncles, I could see those young sons of Danielle also had the best of uncles.

Today was Jeff’s earthly coda, but his musical masterpiece will resonate and echo for many years to come. I feel blessed to have watched this production close up and from afar.

It was a damned good show, Jeff, and I’m eternally grateful.

Jeff Clark’s obituary: https://www.hodappfuneralhome.com/obituaries/jeffrey-clark