Billie “Marlene” Clark Ward, 82, Orange

Billie “Marlene” Clark Ward, 82, of Orange, TX passed away on December 17, 2018, at home surrounded by loved ones.

Marlene was born in Shelby County, Tx on August 3, 1936 to Lucille Beard Clark and William Otto Clark. Her family moved to Orange in 1941 for better job opportunities. Marlene’s school years were at Little Cypress District and Stark High School. After high school Marlene worked at Wingate’s Meat Market for 2 years.

Marlene married Samuel David Ward in November of 1955. Together they had two sons, David Alan Ward and William Arthur Ward. She attend most of her son’s school activities throughout the years. After her youngest son finished high school in 1978, she went to work for K-Mart in Orange. Marlene had to retire after 11 years due to medical reasons.

She was a charter member of Trinity Baptist Church in Orange. She enjoyed the actives of her Sunday School Class, going to Southern Gospel singing conventions and Bill Gaither’s homecomings. Her hobbies included making flower arrangements for her church, family and friends and interior decorating. Marlene enjoyed time at family get togethers.

Marlene was preceded in death by her parents, Otto & Lucille Clark of Orange; her special Aunt & Uncle, Mary Sue and Hayward Hutto of Orange; Brother in Law, Gladman Henry of Anahuac and her Brother-in-Law, Albert Adams of Orange.

She is survived by her husband of 63 years, Sam Ward of Orange; son’s David Ward and Bill Ward of Orange; sisters, Marcelle Adams of Orange and Margie Henry of Belton, TX; nieces, Theresa Beauchamp and husband Frank or Orange; Marilyn Jinkins and Lisa Henry of Belton, TX; nephew, Tommy Henry and wife of Anahuac and cousin Betty Jane Hogg of Orange.

Marlene had several great friends and neighbors. Her body has been donated to UTMB of Galveston for medical research. There will not be a memorial service.