Joe Sam Clark, Jr., beloved son of the late Joe Sam Clark, Sr. and Pastor Veola J. Clark, was born in Indianapolis, Indiana on November 15, 1941.

During the early years of his life, he attended the public schools of Cairo, Grady County, Georgia, and was active in numerous school activities and functions.

As a youth, he accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior and began his Christian fellowship.

Joe had many passions in his life and was always busy pursuing them. Having been blessed with the gift of music in his youth and having a burning desire to be a member of the school band, he taught himself how to play the clarinet within a two-hour period. He later learned to play the saxophone and ultimately became one of the most talented saxophonists with incredible improvisational skills. His style and techniques caught the attention of his band director who encouraged him to join the Jazz band. That experience was further enhanced when Joe organized the group, "Soul Inspiration." He was a uniquely talented individual who believed strongly in sharing his God-given talent with others. Through the years, he inspired and taught many musicians in the surrounding area, including his brother Charles. Joe was also an exceptionally accomplished individual who gave is very best at everything he did. For many years, he owned and operated a very successful Automotive Body Shop.

"Uncle Joe" or "Cool" as he was affectionally called, was a selfless, hardworking, and generous man who dearly loved his family and friends. Many lives were enriched by him and he had a wonderful way of putting people at ease. If he could make you laugh or make your day a little better in any way, he would feel he had done something worthwhile. We all were blessed to have shared his life.

On Friday, July 13, 2018, Joe transitioned from labor to reward. Melvin's journey came to a peaceful end. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, James A. Clark.

Precious memories of a life well lived will remain constant in the hearts of his children, Jawaski Harper and Lawanda Harper of Albany, GA; grandchildren, Camdon Harper and Jimmy Sims of Albany, GA; siblings, Margie Clark and Charles Clark of Albany, GA; nephew, Derrick (Priscilla) Lyons of Atlanta, GA; nieces, Stephanie Adams of Indianapolis, IN, Conjas Clark-Wheeler, Chandra Clark, and Rachel Clark all of Albany, GA; and a host of great nieces and nephews, other family, and friends.