Ernest Edwin Clark, Jr.

Ernest Edwin “Eddie” Clark, 79, of Canyon, Texas, passed away peacefully on January 3, 2025. 

A celebration of Eddie’s extraordinary life will be at 11:00 AM, Saturday, January 25th at the First Presbyterian Church in Amarillo with Rev. Murray Gossett presiding. Arrangements are by Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors. 

Eddie was born on September 21, 1945, in Elk City, Oklahoma, to Ernest and Joyce Clark, Eddie’s life was an extraordinary tapestry of faith, service, resilience, and boundless love for his family. Eddie’s formative years in Buffalo NY and Oklahoma, were shaped by the values of hard work and determination. He assisted his mother in running a small motel while his father served overseas in Korea. From an early age, Eddie exhibited a natural leadership that later earned him the rank of Eagle Scout and acclaim in athletics. These qualities remained hallmarks of his character throughout his life. When the family relocated to Amarillo, Texas, Eddie continued to excel, graduating high school and embarking on a journey of academic and personal growth.

At West Texas State University, Eddie pursued his passion for history and joined the ROTC program, setting the foundation for a life of service. It was during this transformative period that he met Cassie, the woman who would become the love of his life. Introduced by her brother, Hank Kelly—a close fraternity brother of Eddie’s—the two forged a partnership built on unwavering devotion. Married for over five decades, Eddie and Cassie nurtured a vibrant family, raising five children and embracing the joy of nine grandchildren.

Eddie’s sense of duty called him to Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary, aspiring to become an Army Chaplain. However, the Army had a different path for him. Commissioned as an Artillery officer, he served with distinction during the Vietnam War, enduring the harrowing conditions of the Tet Offensive as a forward observer with the 101st Airborne Division. His bravery earned him the Bronze Star for Valor and the Vietnamese Cross for Gallantry. In a role with a life expectancy measured in days, Eddie’s remarkable perseverance and the grace of God saw him serve a full year in that role, exemplifying his courage and grit.

Returning to Amarillo after Vietnam, Eddie was reunited with his young family and met his infant daughter, Christine Taylor, for the first time. He transitioned to a career in highway construction management, where his leadership left an indelible mark on the Texas landscape. The highways he helped build remain a testament to his vision and dedication.

Eddie’s time in the military forged a deep connection to the natural world. The mountains became his sanctuary, a place of solace and renewal. He scaled all of Colorado’s 14,000-foot peaks, including a daring winter ascent of Longs Peak’s North Face. His adventurous spirit led him to attempt Denali and Aconcagua, undeterred by weather that forced his retreat. To Eddie, the mountains symbolized the triumph of the human spirit and the serenity of being attuned to nature.

Eddie is survived by his children Christine Taylor (husband Barry Taylor), Justin Clark (wife Melody Clark), Andrea Barnett, and Kelly Rueda (husband Pablo Rueda); and his cherished grandchildren, Madison Bassett (husband Nathanial Bassett), Caleb Milsow, Ethan Taylor, Emma Milsow, Wyatt Barnett, Dawson Milsow, Everett Barnett, Bellamy Rueda, and Bennett Rueda and his great grandson Barrett Bassett. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Cassie, and his daughter, Darcie Milsow.

Those who knew Eddie will forever carry the memory of his steadfast faith, unyielding love, and the courage that defined his life. Whether on rugged mountain trails or within the hearts of his family, Eddie left an enduring legacy of honor, wisdom, and compassion.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to the Salvation Army, honoring the values he held dear.

Though deeply missed, Eddie’s spirit will remain a guiding light, inspiring all who knew him to live with purpose, courage, and love. His journey was one of profound meaning—a testament to a life lived with grace and unyielding conviction.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the Amarillo VA for their care and support they have provided.