Opal Huff Clarke

Our beloved mother, Opal Huff Clarke passed away at her home on May 8, 2023, following an extended illness. Opal was born December 20, 1925, in Naples, Ky. to Allen and Margaret (Sark) Huff.  

She was preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, Darwin K Clarke of Ashland, Ky., daughter Kathy (Bob) Donta, and son John D (Taunya) Clarke.  Surviving children are Rosemary (Dr. George)  Anderson of Bradenton, Fl, Terrie (Jack) Neufarth of Fort Thomas, Ky, Kevin (Beth) Clarke of Rush, Ky and Leif (Ashlee) Clarke of Ashland.

She was also proceeded in death by her brothers Estill (Bessie) Huff of Naples, Ky, Arvil (Bertha) Huff of Shirley, IN and Hershel (Halcy) Huff of Naples, Ky.  Sisters preceding her in death were Geneva (Gerald) Raver of Baltimore, OH, Rosetta Huff of Naples, Ky, Thelma (Sam) Boley of Columbus, Ohio and Violet (Jimmy) Cook Adkins of Old Fields, WV. 

She was a loving grandmother to Michael (Buffy) Walton, David (Leeann) Hicks, Bonnie (John) Hardison, Dr. Lori Conrad, Eric (Rebecca) Neufarth, Tiffany (Adam) Noe, Anthony Donta, Jesse Clarke, Jacob (Dr Caity) Clarke, Chalise Hatton, Brice Clarke and Parker Clarke.   She was a great grandmother to 16 and will be sorely missed by a host of nieces and nephews.

Opal was a graduate of Wurtland High School, attended Berea College and was a teacher in a one room schoolhouse (1st-8th grade) in Naples, Ky.  She graduated with an AA degree in Business from ACC and promptly opened Elite Catering in Ashland.    Throughout her ownership she served as caterer for the Paramount Performing Arts Center, catering for entertainers as well as dignitaries.   She catered many corporate functions and catering weddings was her favorite event. She was also a former Worthy Matron of the Order of The Eastern Star, Rush #546, while there holding several Star Points.

Opal was a loving mother, wife and friend to everyone who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested to the Cornerstone Methodist Church in Ashland.

There will be a visitation and celebration of life held at the Cornerstone Methodist Church, 2203 29th St, Ashland, Ky.

Viewing will begin on Thursday, May 11, 2023, at 10:00 A.M., with a celebration of life service to follow.

Carman Funeral Home is caring for arrangements.