Wilma Fern Clark

Fern Clark, a Chapel Hill resident for over 60 years, passed away peacefully on June 2, 2026, at the age of 85, following a long and courageous battle with dementia.

She is survived by her husband, Robert Clark; her sons, Larry and Brett Clark; her grandchildren, Whitney Mays, Bradley Clark, Katie Kim, and Lauren Clark; and her great-grandchildren, Apphia Clark and Finley Mays. She was preceded in death by her mother, Lilly Chaulk; her father, Stew Chaulk; her brothers, Loren and Keith Chaulk; and her son, Ronnie Clark.

Lovingly known as “Nanny” by her family, Fern was born in Newfoundland, later moved to Canada, and at 17 to the United States. She called North Carolina home for most of her adult life, where she raised her three sons and enjoyed being a grandmother.

Fern lived a life of service to others, and her kindness, compassion, and genuine care for those around her touched countless lives. She had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel welcome, valued, and loved, and everyone will remember her distinct “Newfie Jig” dance!

A celebration of Fern’s life will be held on July 11 at Walker’s Funeral Home in Hillsborough at 11 AM. All are invited to attend as family and friends gather to celebrate her life and the faith that sustained her throughout it.

Fern never met a stranger, and everyone she encountered became a friend. She will be remembered for her warmth, generosity, and the love she shared so freely with family, friends, and all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association at https://events.Alzheimer's Association /fundraisers/katherinekim/in-memory-of-my-grandma--fern