Lella June Clark

Lella June Hall Clark, 94, of Poplar Bluff, departed this life on Friday, Feb. 20, 2026, at her residence, surrounded by the love of her family.

She was born on June 30, 1931, in Neelyville, Missouri, to George Frank Hall and Beulah Ethel Grisham Hall. Lella graduated from Neelyville High School in 1949, beginning a life defined by devotion to family, hard work, and simple joys.

On Dec. 27, 1950, she married the love of her life, Milford “Mick” Clark, in Pocahontas, Arkansas. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, commitment, and family.

Lella worked at Clark’s Grocery alongside her beloved husband, Mick, as well as at Poplar Bluff Hospital and Eastside Pharmacy. She was known for her caring spirit and her willingness to help others. Beyond her professional life, she helped raise many children and loved those around her unconditionally.

She was an avid bowler and a devoted St. Louis Cardinals fan. She enjoyed fishing, gardening, attending her grandchildren and great-grandchildren’s ball games, and gathering with friends to celebrate the Kentucky Derby. Her laughter, strength, and unwavering support were gifts to everyone who knew her.

Lella is survived by her daughter, Pamela Clark Smothers; grandchildren, Larry Joe Smothers, Larry Clark, Amy Bowman, Angela Reddish, and Teresia Buxton; and cherished great-grandchildren, Maizie Hunt, Dalton Hunt, Shelby Reddish, Zach Reddish, Melanie Smothers, Logan Smothers, Tyler Batchelor, Brandon Kelly, and Gracie Buxton; along with several great-great-grandchildren. A host of family and friends also survive.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Milford “Mick” Clark; daughter, Kimberly Ann Bowman; son, Mickey Joe Clark; grandson, William “Billy” Clark; grandchild Joshua Bowman; and great-grandchild, Coty Bowman.

Visitation will be held at 4 p.m. Friday, Feb. 27, 2026, at Fitch-Hillis Funeral Home, 366 College Str., Poplar Bluff, MO 63901. Funeral service will follow at 5 p.m. with Fitch-Hillis Funeral Home assisting with all funeral arrangements.

Condolences may be made online at www.fitchhillisfh.com or on the Fitch-Hillis Facebook page.