We regret to announce the passing of Dr. Fredric Hallie Clark, age 78, of Fayetteville, TN. A funeral service will be held at 3pm on Sunday, March 12, 2023, at Higgins Funeral Home with Pastor Ronnie Brewer and Bro. Todd Gaskill officiating. A private family burial will follow the service. Visitation with the family will be held from 12pm until 3pm on Sunday at Higgins.
Fredric Hallie Clark was born March 30, 1944, in Marmaduke, AR a small town in the northeast part of the state. He was raised during a period where times were tough, but his mother instilled in him the values of hard work and his uncle helped foster Fred’s passion for the land. When he was in the 8th grade, Russia launched the first manned spacecraft to orbit Earth. Hearing the Russian cosmonaut proclaim, “there is no God” upon his return had a huge impact on Fred. His strong Christian faith and his belief in American ingenuity helped him decide to become an electrical engineer and work in the U.S. space program. Fred went on to obtain his BS from the University of Arkansas, and his Master’s and Ph.D. from the University of Alabama in Huntsville.
We could have a lengthy article about all of his important professional work, but here is a brief synopsis. Fred joined the U.S. space team fresh out of college by working for the IBM Corporation. He served the U.S. space program through the Apollo and Saturn programs, including all of the moon landings and the Skylab program. While with IBM, Fred worked on upgrades to the B-52 aircraft, radar for the Tomahawk cruise missile, and a special cruise missile that was the first design used in combat during the Vietnam War. When IBM closed their office in Huntsville, AL, Fred was offered a promotion and given the opportunity to move anywhere IBM had a permanent location. However, he had grown to love the Huntsville area and was raising two young children and believed the area to be the family’s permanent home. This led to Fred and a partner Bill Stender launching a new company called CAS, Inc. The company specialized in radar and missile systems design, and in the next 27 years it grew to more than 1000 employees. CAS applied their expertise to many programs including the PATRIOT, HAWK and THAAD air defense systems, Apache and Blackhawk helicopter programs, UAV program, and numerous other short-range missile and radar programs.
In 1988 Fred purchased a beautiful valley nestled in the hills of Tennessee for recreation and hunting. Not only did he want a lush piece of God’s green earth for his own enjoyment, but he also knew that he had to find something to do after his engineering career ended. His old love of agriculture soon found him establishing a commercial beef cattle herd on that land called Deer Valley Farm. Naturally, Fred was never one to do anything if he couldn’t be the best, so he built a herd of Limousin cattle that went on to win many shows around the country, and at one time had as many as five national championships simultaneously. It later became apparent that in order to keep up with the competition within the cattle market, Deer Valley Farm would have to make the change to the Angus breed.
In 2006 Fred and Bill Stender sold CAS. Not willing to sit idle he was able to bring his full focus on growing his farm. During this time, the Clark’s sold their home in Alabama and made Deer Valley Farm their permanent residence. In the years since Deer Valley has grown to a fully integrated operation that grows the majority of what they feed to their nearly 2500 head of the most progressive Angus cattle in the industry.
Within hours of Fred’s death, there were streams of calls and messages from stunned people from all walks of his life. Stories have been flooding in that demonstrate what a kind and generous man Fred was. There are also so many examples of how he used his intelect, his vision of possibilities, good old-fashioned hard work, and determination to make great things happen. He had the same attitude towards his friends and family. When he loved someone, he truly loved with all that he had. Many mentioned the joy of hearing his laughter and how it could fill the room with its warmth and exuberant energy.
Survivors include his wife, Phyllis Clark; children, Kimberly Ann Clark of Fayetteville; Dr. Sheri Lyn Clark (Laura Jesmer) of Phoenix, AZ, Delia Jo Ramsey of Nashville, Karen Elisabeth Bracken of Huntersville, NC, Philip (DeWayna) Shelton of Petersburg, Callie Shelton (fiancé Jordan Hedges) of Nashville; grandchildren, William Alexander Vaughn, Avery Shelton; great-grandsons, Abram Clark and Aiden James Vaughn; and several nieces, nephews, extended family members, and DVF farm family. Dr. Clark was preceded in death by his parents, Ben Clark and Bernice Crouch Clark; wife, Rinda Jo Clark; and sisters, Jane (Joe) Zollner, and Margaret (Fred) Koch.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the following local charities:
Fabulous 50s Foundation: Proceeds from the shows over the 20+ years have been donated to The American Cancer Society; Multi-County Cancer Support Network; and now primarily dedicated to serving the needs of families in Lincoln County. https://www.fabulousfiftiesshow.com. PO Box 934, Fayetteville, TN 37334
Howell Cumberland Presbyterian Church: 43 Brown Teal Rd, Fayetteville TN 37334
Junior’s House, Inc. Advocacy Center: Please visit https://www.juniorshousecac.org for the list of programs and services. PO Box 1062, Fayetteville, TN 37334
Higgins Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Dr. Fredric Hallie Clark.
Although it is much too soon to say goodbye, my last paternal cousin has gone to his reward. Dr. (Papa) Fred (always Freddie to me) lived a life that made his whole family proud. His mother who loved and sacrificed for him, was always with him in his heart, as were the uncles who helped him in his young years. Everyone loved Freddie, and he showed that love right back. His services were so tastefully done that I can say that I enjoyed his funeral. Not the fact that we lost him, but the genuine love and respect that came through in the talks given by friends and associates. Two facts stand out in my memory: “Don’t cry because of what you’ve lost. Smile because of what you had.” Another is the impression made upon my seventeen-year-old grandson. Brooks told me afterwards that listening to “Uncle” Freddie’s eulogies inspired him to be a better person. Freddie did that to people.
My deepest condolences to Kim, Sheri, Phyllis and all the family. Fred’s passing is a tremendous loss for my family, since Fred and my mother, Kay, were the last remaining cousins on my mom’s paternal side. We were all saddened and stunned to hear of his sudden passing and were so very thankful that we were able to attend his service. The tributes and the memories shared about “uncle” Fred were so touching. HIs service was probably one of the most tastefully done we have ever attended. And the procession was very befitting of a man who accomplished so much in his lifetime. Many thanks to the long line of Sherriff’s deputies who led Fred through his ranch to his final resting place. Fred was humble, genuine and quite possibly one of the finest human beings I’ve ever known. I miss him already. Fred, thank you for all that you gave to this world and for loving us the way you did our whole lives. I love you. Rest in Peace, Fred, until we meet again.
We are so saddened by the passing of our neighbor Mr Fred. He was an outstanding man with a big heart. His accomplishments will be remembered always. He will be missed in Lincoln County and in our little Harms community. Phyllis if we can be of any help we are here for you.
I knew and respected Fred Clark for over 30 years. He was friendly and a gentleman to all he met. I offer deepest condolences to his family, friends, the DVF staff, and their families. I hope and pray you all find comfort and support from your faith and each other during this sad time. God Speed Fred.
Fred Clark was an American Hero. Fred was both a wonderful man and a great family man. I do not know if Fred was the smartest man I ever knew but it would not take long to call roll in his class. Fred and I have enjoyed some great times with our joint cattle and many very Fun hunts together. Fred will be missed and I shall never forget our friendship. Fred was a treasure!
Fred’s Family, JP and the Deer Vally team is in our Prayers.
I’ve known Fred since I was 5 when he began dating my older sister. Fred and my sister gave me two beautiful nieces and a great nephew, Alex. All exceptional people and part of Fred’s legacy. He was always such a great father and loved his girls so much! I have so many good memories of Fred. When I was in first grade, he was in college at UofA in Fayetteville AR. He brought me home a razzorback sweatshirt and I wore it to school, bragging proudly! I also spent many good times with Uncle Toby, AuntDola his mom and his sister and brother-in-law, Jane and Joe. They all were incredible people and I lloved them all! Fred looked incredibly like Uncle Toby. Toby was a remarkable man and so was Fred. My dad,Fred and Toby hunted together and they were good friends that respected each other. Fred will always be a part of my family. My heart goes out to those who loved him dearly. Love you Fred!
A true visionary!
Mach speed to heaven
I work at Mercedes in the service dept and Dr Clark was the MOST kind and sweet customers that I have ever had the pleasure of meeting He was always kind and sweet.He will truly be missed… Rest In Peace. My condolences to his family.
I remember so well spending many Christmases of my childhood with our families gathering at one or another of our family’s homes in Marmaduke, AR. I always loved him for the gentleness, kindness and love that he gave to me, to all of us. As a very young child, I once told him, “Freddie, I want to marry you when I grow up.” He would just grin and hug me. Even then, I could feel the kindess of the man he would become. I will always love you and miss you. Nancy Vangilder
Phyllis and family, I offer my sincere condolences at the loss of our dear Fred. He was always kind and generous to all who knew him. Please know that I hold your family close in prayer. Much love to everyone.
I worked for Fred close to 30 years back when he was an owner of CAS, Inc. He was one of the nicest men I have ever known. May he rest in peace!
I loved my friend. We have laughed together, he’s seen my tears, given me bear hugs and shared Friend letters.our friendship began in 1st grade,but it depends into my knowing he would Always give me a place in his heart. My heartaches today because I know I will never hear from him again as I did this week after my. Brother died”Rita are you alright?” He loved me enough to name one of his cattle breeds after me. Yes I am the Rita cows namesake. I love you, Freddy, and I always have and will hold your memory in my heart.
When someone you love and respects becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure. May he rest easy in grace and love shine down on his family. He always asked me about my dad and my son and playing golf, such a great guy, He will be missed
I remember Fred from Trinity Baptist Madison Alabama. Praying for the Clark family in this time of sorrow.
Kim and Family. We are so very sorry to hear about the loss of your father. Prayers for all of your family and Mr. Fred’s friends. He was a Great man. Heaven has gained another Angel. Brenda & Big Joe Burns
Fred was a Great Man Loved by All ..Our Thoughts and Prayers are with his family…He will be missed.. May GOD Bless and give his family strength through this difficult time and as they move forward….Much Love to All 🙏❤️
Phyllis and Family, We are so very sorry to learn of Fred’s death. Though we have only known him for the past few years, it was easy to see why he was so well respected and loved by so many. He was a true friend to all in our small rural church and he will be deeply missed by all of us. Praying that the family’s wonderful memories will help sustain you during this very difficult time. Jimmy and Diane Buchanan
Fred was my boss for over 20 years at CAS, but he was much more than a boss… he was a really close personal friend. He loved his family, his church, his work, his friends, the farm, hunting, taking golf lessons, and drinking diet Dr. Peppers. He was one of the really good guys and will be missed by many. If you knew Fred, you had to love him.
Simply put, a good kind man and one of the best personal friends I ever had. Nothing but sweet memories. He will be missed—-by many.
Our thoughts and prayers are with this family. Mr Fred was a very nice man who loved his family very much. He loved watching his grandkids play basketball. He will be missed by many. 🙏🙏🙏❤️❤️
Deepest sympathy and prayers for his family. He certainly was a very kind and generous man.
My husband and brother done alot of work for Mr.Fred very nice man his family is in our prayers