Portrait unveiling part of celebration’s activities
The late Sue Clark was honored for her work to preserve the historical and cultural heritage of Waycross and Ware County with a heartfelt ceremony at Southern Forest World (SFW) last week.
Proclamations issued by the city and the county designated Thursday, March 20, as Sue Clark Day. Clark died May 2, 2023 at age 98.
The special event was attended by family, friends and community members who gathered to celebrate the contributions and impact of this beloved Waycrossan. Clark was known for her unwavering dedication to the Waycross community, where she actively participated in various philanthropic endeavors and local organizations.
She spearheaded the creation of Southern Forest World and the Okefenokee Heritage Center. These two venerable institutions preserve the historical and cultural heritage of Waycross-Ware County through interactive displays and numerous activities that promote community involvement in our rich and varied history.
Ware County Manager James Shubert, District 4 Commissioner Barry Cox and Clerk Melinda Brooks were on hand to present the county’s proclamation. Pinch-hitting for Waycross Mayor Michael-Angelo James, David Jordan, Secretary of the Southern Forest World Board of Trustees, presented the city’s proclamation.
Clark, a Waycross native born in 1925, had a profound and lasting impact on the local and state level with her efforts to preserve Ware County history and culture.
Her exceptional dedication to service was recognized through numerous accolades including the Council-level Boy Scouts of America Silver Fawn Award; the 1969 Waycross Woman of the Year; the Chamber of Commerce’s “Jack Williams Outstanding Community Service Award” and the Wesleyan College Alumnae Award for Distinguished Achievement.
She also served as the state president of the Women’s Auxillary to the Medical Association of Georgia. In 1978, Mrs. Clark was appointed to the Georgia Forest Research Council by then Governor George Busbee and was reappointed by Governor Joe Frank Harris, serving with distinction until 1987.
She also was presented with the Georgia Forestry “Wise Owl” Award in recognition of her outstanding contributions to the development of Southern Forest World, the host of Sue Clark Day and a lasting testament to her vision, work and commitment to preserving the history and culture of Georgia’s forestry resources.
The highlight of the ceremony was the unveiling of a framed portrait of Sue Clark by her son, Dr. William Clark, and Bob Brown, SFW Board of Trustees. The portrait, which captures the warmth and spirit of Clark, will be displayed prominently at Southern Forest World serving as a lasting tribute to her contributions to the community.
Dr. Clark, in his speech during the unveiling, shared personal anecdotes that illustrated his mother’s generosity, kindness, and passion for community service.
“My mother believed in the power of community and always encouraged us to give back and support one another,” he stated. “It is an honor for us to see her legacy recognized in such a meaningful way.”
SFW Director Bertha Dixon coordinated the event which featured a home-style luncheon of hamburgers, hot dogs, potato salad and baked beans, along with a variety of desserts.
Barry Deas, Chairman of the SFW Board of Trustees who presided over the event, pointed out it was a team effort by members and volunteers that included Denise Lee, Dawn Hanson, Doug and Kathy Todd, Derek Harrison, Angela Carstens, Brenda Davis, TJ Rogers and Dennie Dixon.
“We hope the first Sue Clark Day will serve as a reminder for the residents of Waycross and Ware County to carry forward the spirit of kindness and community involvement that Sue Clark represented,” Deas said. “The day will be an annual celebration, encouraging everyone to reflect on the values that Sue embodied and to motivate others to do the same.”
