Mrs. Jane Bowen Clarke

Jane Bowen Clarke, 73, of Columbia, entered God’s grace Thursday, October 30, 2014. Born November 9, 1940 in Lake City, South Carolina, Jane was the wife of J. Walker Clarke, and mother of J. Walker, Edward, and Perrin. Jane was the daughter of the late Edward Curtis Bowen and Helen Perrin Bowen; and is also survived by her brother, Kenneth Edward Bowen and his wife, Lois Ann, of Lake City, SC. Jane graduated from the University of South Carolina in 1962 after transferring from Queens College, where she attended her freshman and sophomore years, and was a member of the Alpha Delta Pi Sorority. She was raised in the Lake City Baptist Church and upon her marriage to Walker in 1966, became an active member of First Presbyterian Church of Columbia. Jane was the President of the Women of the Church, a member of the Remnant Sunday School Class, served on many church committees, and was a constant warm welcome to the many visiting families at her church. Jane was especially dedicated to the Thursday morning Men’s 100 Bible Study and Fellowship, which began in her home where she served breakfast and coffee in support of the men in attendance. She was an active member and graduate of Bible Study Fellowship (“BSF”) as well as a participating member of the Junior League of Columbia for many years. Jane has always been Walker’s stalwart and strength over the years as his wife, supporter, organizer and even First Lady for so many of their cotton functions, all of which was confirmed by seeing them walk hand in hand so often. Jane loved her children, J. Walker Clarke, Jr. and Dina, Edward Samuel Clarke and Andrea, Perrin Clarke Adams and Forester; and her eight grandchildren, Helen Jordan Clarke, J. Walker Clarke III, Kay Rivers Clarke, Samuel Sumpter Clarke, Helen Ellsworth Clarke, Forester Bailey Adams, Jr., Joseph Clarke (“Jack”) Adams, and Jane Sutton Adams. A beautiful loving wife and mother, a true southern lady and a gracious servant of our Lord, Jane lived a wonderful, full life with her radiant smile. A very special thank you to all of the family and friends who have surrounded her; as well as the dedicated and caring staff of Laurel Crest, Palmetto Health Hospice, and the personal care givers at home. The funeral service for Mrs. Clarke will be held 2 o’clock, Sunday, November 2nd, at The First Presbyterian Church, with Dr. John R. de Witt and The Rev. L. Craig Wilkes officiating. Burial will follow in the churchyard. The family will receive friends following the service in Jackson Hall. Elders of The First Presbyterian Church are invited to serve as honorary pallbearers. Memorials and donations can be made in her honor to the Laurel Crest Endowment Trust, 100 Joseph Walker Dr, West Columbia, SC 29169 or to The First Presbyterian Church, 1324 Marion St, Columbia, SC 29201.

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Mrs. Jane Bowen Clarke

November 9, 1940 - October 30, 2014