Hugh Clark

Hugh Michael Clark, 71 of Chattanooga, formerly of Cleveland, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday morning, September 17 with his family at his side.

Hugh was the son of the late James and Mildred Milner Clark and was also preceded in death by a brother in-law James Swann, nephews: Hugh Tyler Swann and Michael Ward plus a very special friend/brother Willie Benson.

He was veteran of the US Army serving actively from 1976 until 1979 including a tour of duty in Germany. He retired from CHI Memorial as a CT Technician after 34 years of employment.

A '72 graduate of Bradley Central High School, he was a member of the Bear football squad where he was known as "the nose" after having stitches in the bridge of his nose following each game. At the end of the season, he received an Outstanding Player award with the inscription "Nobody nose football like Hugh Clark". He also attended Cleveland State Community College before transferring to Chattanooga State, where he graduated.

He lifted our hearts and warmed our souls with his music. (Unknown).

Following high school Hugh, a passionate musician, was employed by Goldrush Junction, later known as Silver Dollar City. now Dollywood. He was a guitarist, drummer and lead soloist. He also worked in Pigeon Forge as a local musician, From an early age, he loved music and because of this, his album collection was second to none. His love for music inspired and influenced his friends and family so his nieces and nephews grew up loving "good music". He was also a voracious reader and a master in the kitchen.

Hugh is survived by his partner Tracy Kilgore; brothers: Jimmy (Mollie) Clark

of Cleveland TN and Terry (Dave Karger) Clark of Palm Springs, CA; sisters: Faye (Bob) Nolen and Debbie Clark of Cleveland TN and Linda Swann of Delta AL. Nieces: Shannon Ward, Susan (Shane) Johnson, Melissa (Russ) Belflower, and Ami (Steve) Nethery; Nephews: Craig Swann and Rob Nolen. Grand nieces and nephews: Ashley White, Lily Millsaps, Hailey Swann, Chloe Tallent, Meadow Belflower, Ian Ward, Jacob Ward, Zachary Swann, and Devyn Tallent. Great-grand nieces and nephews: Alizay White, Eli White, Isabelle Millsaps, and Theodore Millsaps.

He is also survived by three aunts in Chicago IL, an uncle in Memphis TN, and an extended family including two very special friends: Shane Lowe and Phyllis Taylor.

Honoring his request, the family will hold a private graveside service with military honors.

To honor Hugh's memory, we ask that you read a new book, go see your favorite musician in concert, or prepare a special meal to share with a loved one. These things brought immense joy to Hugh's life.

Hugh will be laid to rest at Sunset Memorial Gardens in Cleveland, TN. You are invited to share a personal memory of Hugh or your condolences with his family at his online memorial located at www.companionfunerals.com. Companion Funeral & Cremation Service and the Cody family are honored to assist the Clark family with these arrangements.