A Southeast Queens community mourns the loss of one of its Democratic-political legends, Assemblywoman Barbara Clark, who died at age 76 of natural causes on Feb. 22 at her home in Queens, NY.
For nearly three decades, Clark a political advocate, was known for her nonstop push for academic expansion and improvement in academic venues. She was vice-chair of the National Conference of State Legislators’ Education, Labor and Job Training Committee, a member of the NCSL’s Human Service Committee and the Education Commission of States.
“The Honorable Barbara Clark was a public servant who served her community in the New York State Assembly,” stated Leroy Gadsden, president of the NAACP in Jamaica. “”Assemblywoman Clark advocated for many different issues and causes in the best interest of our community,” he added in a prepared statement.
“Her service represented a true care and love for her community. She was a relentless advocate for a free-quality public education for everyone; and the rights and needs of our beloved senior citizens.” Expressing the profound sadness of the recognized politically- savvy communities Clark represented in the New York State Assembly District 33., which comprised the 33rd Assembly District, Gadsden added, “Assemblywoman Clark loved her community and she loved the NAACP.”
Political leaders throughout New York State hailed Clark as dedicated, a champion of education and a legend. “She was a great public servant and will be missed,” stated Gov. Cuomo to one media outlet about Clark who served in the Assembly as assistant majority whip and on standing committees focused on Children and Families, Education and Environmental Conservation.
On Twitter and Facebook, Clark’s constituents expressed their condolence for the long-time Queens Democrat whose representation, included: Bellerose, Cambria Heights, Hollis, and St. Albans. On Facebook, the Honorable Cheree A. Buggs shared a photograph with the lawmaker.
Although a team player, Clark cut her own swath in the political arena by voting against Marriage Equality and insisting her community receive the requisite respect.
Clark was born on June 12, 1939 in West Virginia. She was married to Thomas Clark. From this union, there are four adult children and two grandchildren.
