Frances Villaret Clark

Frances “Mimi” Clark passed away peacefully and surrounded by her children on Tuesday, March 5th, 2024, after a short illness. Frances was born in Washington, DC, on February 20, 1928 and was the daughter of Col. Gustave and Frances Villaret. She was preceded in death by her husband, LTC Raymond G. Clark, Jr., and is survived by her four children, Raymond G. Clark, III (Christine), Sean B. Clark (Cynthia), Kathleen Harman (Ronald), and Moira Boswell, as well as her 13 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. As an Army dependent, and later as an Army wife, Frances traveled and lived all over the world, including China, Germany, the United States, and her absolutely favorite country, Spain. A graduate of the University of Maryland Art program, she was not only an accomplished artist, but also a classical guitarist, and an afficionado and practitioner of Spanish flamenco. She was a docent at the Miami zoo and volunteered for many years at the Kennedy Center. By far and away, she was most devoted to her Catholic faith and her precious family. A long-time parishioner at Saint Michael’s Catholic Church in Annandale, Virginia, she was a member of the choirs, the Discalced Carmelites, the Legion of Mary, and the Perpetual Adoration ministry. Throughout Frances’ colorful life, she was always known for her faith, joie de vivre, loving and caring for others. Even at the end, she continuously prayed for her family, friends and the world. The following reflection on the life of Saint Therese, the “Little Flower” and her patron saint, sums up Frances’ life perfectly: “In the fading moments of life when many would crumble in despair – your tiny heart expanded to unwrap the gift of grace in a devastating deathbed journey. From the slightest shadow of distraction to the darkest cloud of disappointment, your trusting vision perceived an unfolding light of blessing in the blackest of nights. Open the eyes of my heart, Therese, that I too might find grace when my dreams are dashed, my life diminished or my visions waylaid. Strengthen my journey that I might trust in the prevailing grace of my Creator in all the situations of my life.” Frances’ celebration of life Mass will be held at Saint Michael’s Church at 7401 Saint Michael’s Lane, Annandale, Virginia 22003, on Friday, April 12th at 10 am. Visitation and prayers will be at Saint Michael’s Church on Thursday, April 11th from 5 pm to 7 pm.

Frances Villaret Clark

February 20, 1928 - March 5, 2024