Clarke
WAYCROSS — Heyward Burnet Clarke, known to family and friends as “Boo,” passed away on Friday, July 24, 2026.
He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather, a loyal friend, and a res pected member of his community. A man of deep faith and strong character, Clarke left a lasting impression on all who knew him.
Born to A.M. Clarke and Valeria North Burnet Clarke, he grew up in Waycross, a community where he spent a majority of his life. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Dr. Henri “Hal” Clarke.
A natural peacemaker, Clarke carried a steady, reassuring presence. He valued relationships, treated others with dignity, and lived his faith in a way that influenced those around him. Clarke graduated from Waycross High School, where he was cocaptain of the football team. He later graduated from the University of Georgia. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy and went on to become a Certified Public Accountant.
He had a lifelong love of animals, especially horses. His love of horses, together with his desire to serve others, led him to found and direct SaddleUp Therapeutic Horse Riding Center, serving children with special needs. For 10 years, SaddleUp was one of Clarke’s great joys and a meaningful expression his compassion and commitment to others.
Clarke also served on the board of To The Nations Ministries, supporting its mission and outreach efforts. He enjoyed staying active and was a familiar face at Sweats Gym, where, as in so many places throughout his life, he built lasting friendships. He simply had a way of making friends wherever he went.
Above all, Clarke was devoted to his family and especially to his beloved wife, Ann Williams Clarke. The two met in Waycross and shared 63 years of marriage, building a life centered on family, faith, and love.
He is survived by Ann; his children, David Clarke and his wife, Sharon, of Colorado; Andrew Clarke and Laurens Clarke, both of New Jersey; grandchildren, Hunter Clarke and his wife, Jess, Madison Clarke, Preston Clarke, Margo Clarke, Stella Long, and Asher Long; great granddaughter, Harper Clarke; and sister-in-law, Betty Clarke.
His life will be remembered not simply for titles or accomplishments, but for his devotion to family, his service to others, the friendships he made everywhere he went, and the steady example he set through humility, kindness, and love for Jesus.
He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Miles-Odum Funeral Home. Visitation will be 1 p.m., Sunday, August 2 in the fellowship hall of First Presbyterian Church, 601 Hill Street , followed by a memorial service at 2:30 p.m. in the sanctuary.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Okefenokee Alliance for the Homeless or To The Nations Ministries, two organizations whose missions reflect Clarke’s commitment to Christian faith, service, and caring for others.
Sympathy may be expressed by signing online at www.milesodumfuneralhome. com.
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