Sylvester Clark

Sylvester “Sy” Clark, age 77, passed away peacefully at his home in Denver, Colorado, on April 14, 2025.

Born on June 20, 1947, in Chicago, Illinois, Sy was the youngest of three siblings. He graduated from Boston English High School before earning his bachelor’s degree from UMass-Boston, an MBA from Indiana University, and later a master’s degree from Wheelock College. Throughout his life, Sy exemplified a passion for learning, deep curiosity, and a commitment to serving others.

Following a career in corporate management, Sy transitioned to teaching history and government to middle and high school students in the Boston Public Schools—a natural progression for someone who had long been educating others in every setting. Friends and family often remarked that his gift for explaining ideas and sparking thoughtful conversations made him a natural educator at heart.

As a brother, Sy was wise beyond his years. Although the youngest in the family, his sister Valeria described him as a steady guide, offering insight and encouragement that had a lasting impact. Sy was also devoted to his older brother, Tommy, serving as his primary caregiver in his later years. His warmth and protective nature extended to his nieces and their families, who will always remember “Uncle Sy” for his infectious laughter, captivating storytelling, and ability to turn curiosity into an adventure.

As a father to his daughter, Erin, Sy wore his pride openly. He closely followed her academic and professional accomplishments and never missed a chance to share them with others. Though they didn’t live in the same city for much of her life, Erin treasures the memories of summers spent in Boston as a child, college years nearby in Rhode Island, and sharing Sy’s one and only European adventure in 2000. Their bond grew deeper after Sy moved to Denver in 2023.

Sy also enjoyed the gift of lifelong friendship. Many of his most enduring connections began during his MBA studies at Indiana University, while others dated back to junior high and high school in Boston. Among these circles, Sy was a constant presence—larger than life to many—and will be remembered for his loyalty, humor, and deep sense of friendship.

Sy was the beloved son of the late Imogene Varnell (Green) Clark and Sylvester E. Clark, and the brother of the late Thomas Roland Clark. He is survived by his children, Erin Clark (and her partner, Josh West) and Imani Clark-Marks; his sister, Valeria Richard; his nieces, Lauren Richard, Carolyn Parris, and Adrienne Casselberry, along with their partners and children; and his dear cousin, Gail Livingston.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, May 2, 2025, at Park Hill United Methodist Church, 5209 Montview Boulevard, Denver, CO. Family and friends are invited to gather and reminisce from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, with the service beginning at 12:00 PM, officiated by Pastor Valerie Jackson. A committal service will follow at Fairmount Cemetery, 430 S. Quebec Street, from 2:00 to 2:30 PM. A reception will be hosted afterward at the home of Patty and David Powell in Cherry Creek.

For those unable to attend in person, the following is the livestream link that allows you to participate virtually: https://park-hill.livecontrol.tv/504bbfde

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to assist Sy’s family with his final journey can be made via GoFundMe.

Sy’s spirit of curiosity, generosity, and joy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.