Johnnie Ray Clark

Johnnie Ray Clark, 80, of New Haven, Connecticut, passed away peacefully on April 16, 2026, at Advanced Rehab Center in New Haven.

Johnnie Ray was born on February 14, 1946, in Pantego, North Carolina, to the late Jim Payton and Rosalie Clark Edwards. He was raised by his uncle, Rufus Clark, in Winterville, North Carolina, until the age of 13, when he moved to New Haven to reunite with his mother.

Johnnie leaves to cherish his memory one daughter, Kristen Clark of Hamden; three sons, Keith, Jahmal, and Justin Clark, all of New Haven; one sister, Carolyn Jones of Greenville, North Carolina; and four brothers, Lindsey Edwards (Cassandra), Larry Edwards (Theresa), Gregory Edwards, and Michael Edwards, all of New Haven. He is also survived by 12 grandchildren, great-grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, cousins, and a special niece, Annie Faye Clark.

Johnnie was preceded in death by his parents; stepfather, LC Edwards; sisters, Ruby Clark, Ann Jones, and Eleanor Antrum; and brother, Bobby Clark.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

A celebration of Johnny’s life will be held on Friday, May 1, 2026 at 11am at Holy National Church 31 Sperry Street, New Haven, CT. Viewing in Church from 10-11am. Burial to follow at Beaverdale Memorial Park. Condolences may be expressed at Colonialfunerals.com.