Ruth LaVerne Pogue Clark

Ruth Laverne Pogue Clark

January 18, 1938 – July 8, 2024

The Dash: What matters most is the dash between the date of birth and the date of death. The time a person spends on earth. 

Ruth was born in Austin, Texas, the daughter of Roy Pogue and Zenas Mae Stevens. She grew up in Creedmoor, Texas. And she graduated from William B. Travis High School in Austin, Class of 1956.

Ruth met Gary Clark, a young airman stationed at Bergstrom Air Force Base, on a blind date in September of 1956. They were married on December 15, 1956, at Onion Creek Baptist Church in Austin, Texas. Ruth and “Clark” celebrated 65 years of marriage before his passing on February 14, 2022. They had four children, nine grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren and a new one expected soon.

In 1967, Ruth and Clark settled in Waco, Texas, their last home. After raising her four children, Ruth decided to follow her dream, a career in nursing. She completed basic nurse and orderly training in November 1969. This motivated her to enroll at McLennan Junior College where she graduated in 1974 with a degree in Applied Science. Ruth was certified as a Registered Nurse on December 6, 1974. She worked at Hillcrest Hospital OBGYN and ICU and later retired from Waco Veterans Hospital in 2004 after 25 years of service.

Ruth was a member of Preceptor Kappa Psi Sorority, serving as Treasurer and President. She was also a member of Red Hats, serving several offices and finally Queen Bee. Ruth enjoyed gardening and was involved in a garden club for years, also holding offices. She and Clark enjoyed traveling throughout the United States in their motorhome and were active members of the Kountry Kampers, both holding various offices through the years. They also enjoyed regular game days with friends for many years.

Ruth was a caring, proficient nurse, talented artist, excellent seamstress and home decorator. She was a very good cook: always trying new recipes. She took great pride in making her home beautiful and entertaining guests. Her greatest pride came from being a loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend.

Ruth is predeceased by her husband Clark, parents Roy and Zenas, infant sister Pearl Marie, nephew Travis Harlan and dear friend and sister-in-law Jacklynne Pogue.

Ruth is survived by her son Carroll and wife Linda, daughter Lou Anne Damitz and husband, George, son Barry and wife, Gwen and son Gary. She leaves behind her nine grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, 6 brothers and 6 sisters and their spouses as well as numerous nieces and nephews, cousins and friends. Her passing leaves and empty space in the hearts of those close to her. 

Ruth filled her dash!!

Special thanks to the special care she received at Stoney Brook and Alamo Hospice, and all the caregivers who gave her so much time and affection.