Gail (Sparks) Clark

Dorothy Gail “Gail” Sparks Clark, 78, of Erwin, Tennessee, passed away on December 16, 2025, after a four-year battle with colon cancer. Born May 6, 1947, to the late Elizabeth Alice Johnson Sparks and Everett Sparks, Gail spent her entire life in Erwin, where she touched countless lives through her dedication to family, education, and community.

Gail was married to Richard Douglas “Doug” Clark for 46 years until his passing in 2018. A passionate educator, she devoted decades to teaching Family and Consumer Science and Culinary Arts at Unicoi County Schools, retiring from Unicoi County High School. Gail inspired her students to excel, often traveling with them across the country for culinary competitions and preparing them for success in life.

Gail was a longtime member of Ninth Street Baptist Church, where she served in youth ministry and transported children throughout Unicoi County in the church van until her health declined. She also contributed to preserving local culture as an active board member of the Tanasi Arts and Heritage Center.

Gail’s survivors include her daughter, Julie Clark Huff and her husband, Parks of Marietta, GA, and her beloved grandchildren, Jack and Scarlett Bowen of Marietta, GA. She is also survived by her brother, Fred Sparks of Erwin. She will be laid to rest beside her husband, Doug, in the Evergreen Cemetery following a private funeral service.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Gail to Rise Erwin, Care and Share of Erwin and Tanasi Arts and Heritage Center.

Online condolences, photos and memories may be shared with the Clark family at www.ledfordfuneralhomes.com 

Robert Ledford Funeral Home, 720 Ohio Avenue, Erwin, is privileged to serve the Clark family. (423) 743-1380.

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