Basil Joe Clark

Basil Joe Clark, better known as BJ or Joe, passed away on September 28, 2024, at age 86, at his home with his daughter at his side.

Born June 26, 1938, near Ronceverte, West Virginia, was the son of the late Mary Boone Clark and Basil Clark.

Joe grew up in Alexandria, Virginia with his mother and her sister, a very special Aunt Daisy. Joe left Alexandria for California where he spent four years in the Marine Corps at El Toro Marine Air Station serving his country and while there, attended Santa Ana Junior College. He returned to Virginia, riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle, and went to work for the Falls Church Police Department. In 1962, he was accepted into the ranks of the Virginia State Police where he served for 34 years, retiring as a Master Trooper in 1996. His assignments included Highland County, Stafford County and Nelson County. In addition to his duties as a Trooper, he was also a fixed wing pilot for the Virginia State Police.

In 1961, Joe married Martha Davis of Highland County, Virginia. Martha passed away unexpectedly in 1964. They had one daughter, Martha Jo Clark who survives.

In addition to his parents, Joe was preceded in death by his wife, Martha “Peg” Clark, and his best friend, love, and companion, Shirley Casto, three brothers, Harry Clark of Clifton Forge, Virginia, George Clark of Covington, Virginia, and David Clark of Springtown, Texas.

Joe is survived by his daughter, Martha Jo ”MJ” Clark (Wes), granddaughters Meggin Wade (Bryan), Colby Stinnette (Travis) and granddaughters, Rachel, Zoe, and Zahra. A sister, Nell Clark Wilson of Clarksville, Virginia, a brother, Alan Clark and his wife Barbara of Clarksville, Virginia. Three sisters-in-law, Joyce Clark of Covington, Virginia, Millie Clark of Clifton Forge, Virginia, and Susan Clark of Springtown, Texas and numerous nieces and nephews.

A very special thanks to Audrey Dunn, Missy Dean, and Judy Spencer who assisted MJ with Joe’s care and comfort. Thank you to the Centra Hospice group that assisted the family during this time.

A memorial service will be held on October 19, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Bethlehem Methodist Church Roseland, Virginia with a luncheon to follow in the social hall.

In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to Bethlehem United Methodist Church, 7539 Patrick Henry Hwy., Roseland VA 22967, or the Nelson County Humane Society, 29 Stagebridge Road, Lovingston, VA 22949.