James Thomas Clark “Coach Clark”

Coach and retired teacher, James Thomas Clark, or “Coach Clark”, as most people know him, returned to his Heavenly Father on Monday, July 17th, 2023, at the age of 76. His battle with serious medical issues in recent years showed his courage in facing life challenges with a smile. Despite the pain, Jim came out a hero and stayed strong until the end.

Jim was born to Mildred and James Joseph Clark on May 13th, 1947, in Kearny, New Jersey. He lived there until 1957, when the family moved to Chandler, Arizona. Jim has two sisters, Marueen and Connie.

Jim completed his bachelor’s degree at Grand Canyon University in 1975, in Physical Education and began teaching thereafter. Jim loved teaching but his true passion came from coaching. Jim loved sports and anything sports related. He coached at Chandler Jr. High, Anderson Jr. High, Chandler High School and Florence High School. He was a true pilar of strength and inspiration in so many students’ athletic journeys. Jim loved teaching the skill of the game but also instilling in his student’s discipline, perseverance and team work. Jim’s mentorship shaped so many young people to be better athletes and better human beings. Jim also worked and had a long-standing relationship with his local YMCA.

Jim was the father of five children, Jeff, Jamie, Lynna, Ida and Scott. His children remember spending many days in the gym playing games and learning to love athletics. Jim also leaves behind 18 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren.

Funeral Services for Coach Clark will be held on Saturday, July 29th, at 10:00 AM at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1280 W. Del Rio Street, Chandler, Arizona, 85224.