Doretha Creel Clark

Doretha Creel Clark, 92, of Hopewell, passed peacefully, Thursday night, January 14, 2021, surrounded by loving members of her family. She was the daughter of the late Norwood and Katie Creel and wife of the late John F. Clark. She is preceded in death by her great-granddaughter Erica Kay Ruis and her brothers Phennie and George Creel. She is survived by her daughter Linda Howard Ruis (Billy), her grandson Johnnie Edward Ruis (Angela), her grandson Bryan Charles Ruis (Della), her great grandchildren, William (Will) J.D. Ruis, Katie Morgan Ruis, Nathaniel B.S. (Nate) Ruis and numerous Nieces and Nephews.
Born and raised in Seven Springs, NC., she experienced the hard times of the 30’s and knew first-hand what it was like to “do without”. After relocating to Hopewell, VA in 1951, she was able to gain employment at Allied Chemical Corp. She was very grateful for her job from which she was able to retire from after 25 years of shift work. She also met the love of her life and husband John F. Clark in Hopewell. John passed away in 1978 and she was devastated. She continued to be strong every day and inspire those around her. After retiring, she took care of her Mother for several years, until her passing, while also helping raise a Grandson. She filled her days working in the yard, which she loved. In the evenings, she would watch Grand Ole Opry. She loved Country music, especially Alan Jackson, Loretta Lynn and George Jones. More than anything, she loved her family, especially visits from her brothers Phennie and George. She was affectionately known as “Honey” to her Grandchildren and Grandchildren’s friends. Her work ethic and shear grit were an inspiration to many.
She recently expressed that she felt she had lived a good long life, full of ups and downs, but a good life, none the less. Now that she has gone to Heaven to be with Jesus, she will be missed dearly. She truly was an Amazing Woman. A Service will be held on Wednesday, January 20, 2021 at 11:00 am at the Hopewell Chapel of J.T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home. Condolences may be registered at www.jtmorriss.com