Eddie Bernard Clark

Eddie Bernard Clark, affectionately known as “Sporty”, “Rubber”, Bernard and “Nard”, graced this earth with his presence on September 25, 1960. Born to the proud parents Eddie William Clark, Sr. and Annie Lou Prather Clark in Manchester, Georgia, the world did not realize the treat it was about to behold.  Bernard, being the last born of his siblings, never failed to let his siblings know that “he was the baby”.  With his vibrant, jovial personality and charming demeanor, Bernard was the star of the show wherever he landed. He was one who never met a stranger and never left a room without someone laughing or smiling at something he said or did.  He never wanted to see anyone sad or having a bad day, so it was his mission to spread joy into the lives of whomever he met.  

As a child, Bernard was the love of the neighborhood.  His jolly cheeks, cunning wit and charming personality won the hearts of all the Oconee Street Elders, who constantly showered him with love, care and treats. You seldom saw a car move from a driveway that didn’t have Bernard “standing” in the middle of the backseat, with a sly grin at his siblings who were left behind.

Bernard loved life as well as people. With his generous, golden heart, you could count on him in times of desperate need. Whether it was a pep talk, emotional support, transportation, finances, love or just a hug, he was “your man”.  Whenever he could, he took care of those around him to the best of his ability.

After graduating from Manchester High School in 1977, unlike the path of his siblings, he decided to take a job at H. Goodman & Sons to provide his own support rather than rely on his parents.  He was also one who desired self-sufficiency over dependency.  As such, he embarked on many entrepreneurial paths that provided him lucrative support, while still maintaining day jobs at Goodman and later at Interface. He created his own cleaning business and lawn care business during his span.  But his crowning achievement blossomed from his love for photography. After older brother, “Lil Bro”, gifted him with his first new camera, Bernard turned a well-loved hobby into a profitable business that he cultivated into perfection. He became a self-taught photographer, making himself the most used black professional photographer in the City of Manchester and surrounding areas for many years.  His talents have provided lasting memories for many weddings, birthday celebrations, proms, baby showers and other special occasions to masses.

Bernard was called to eternal rest on January 7, 2025 at Wellstar Hospital in LaGrange, GA with his family and love ones by his side.

Bernard will truly be missed by all who knew him.

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