Saturday, May 4, 2024
Former Superintendent James Baize is pictured standing next to a picture summarizing Clarke’s life, which is placed in the Gatesville ISD board room.
Former Gatesville Independent School District Superintendent James Baize recommended several month ago to honor the memory of Reverend Willie Clarke.
Clarke served on the school board from 1984 to 1987. Baize described how board meetings during that era were particularly contentious and would sometimes last long hours. However, it was Clarke’s clam demeanor and graciousness that was often the source of compromise.
Most everyone knows that Clarke coined the term “doing what is best for kids,” which has been the Gatesville ISD’s slogan for many years.
Valedictorian of his high school class with countless advanced degrees, Clarke knew the importance of education. He served as pastor of Sweet Home Missionary Baptist Church in Gatesville for 20 years. A powerful preacher with a fantastic singing voice, he was a pillar in the community for decades.
Humble, kind, genuine, soft spoken, and caring are just a few words to describe Clarke. He and his wife Robbie were frequently present at weddings, funerals, and other important events for the members of the Gatesville community.
In recognition of his service, Gatesville ISD asked the city of Gatesville to proclaim Sept. 9, Clarke’s birthday, as “Willie Clarke Day” in 2020.
