At the age of 77, Wilson Francis Clark, affectionately known as Fran, passed away peacefully on December 2, 2024 at his home in East Syracuse. A long-time resident of East Syracuse and formerly of Watertown, NY, Fran was born in Oswego, NY, and was the beloved son of Wilson Francis Clark and Rose Magano Clark.

Fran’s educational journey began at Oswego High School, where he graduated in 1965 and excelled both academically and athletically. He was affectionately known as “The Legend” due to his exceptional basketball skills. He spent countless hours practicing his foul shots in the high school gym. Fran continued his education at Jefferson Community College, where he excelled as a member of the basketball team and received a prestigious recognition trophy. He later earned a degree in business administration from Morris Harvey College in West Virginia. Fran dedicated his professional life to education, teaching business courses at General Brown High School. He was known for his passion for teaching and the lasting influence he had on his students and colleagues alike. Fran retired in 2004 after a fulfilling career, leaving behind a legacy of inspiration and mentorship. In addition to his teaching career, Fran was heavily involved in the sports community. He ran high school and collegiate sports for over 45 years and served as secretary/treasurer of North Country IAABO Board 59. He was also a member of CNY IAABO Board 38 and the Watertown Elks Club. Outside of his professional life, Fran had a variety of hobbies and interests. He spent summers at his lake house, cultivating his passion for gardening and playing golf in summer leagues. He loved to travel, exploring destinations throughout the United States and Europe and enjoying sunny days in Florida, Hilton Head and Myrtle Beach. Fran was an avid sports fan, supporting the SU Orange basketball and football teams, as well as the LA Dodgers, Cleveland Browns and, in recent years, the New England Patriots, where he admired Tom Brady’s talent. Fran was a devoted father and grandfather and his family was the center of his life.

He is survived by his partner of 31 years, Patricia “Trisha” Howard of East Syracuse; his daughter, Janicca L. Clark-Virga (Peter) of Watertown; his son, Jeremy R. Clark of Georgia; Patricia’s daughter Melissa Howard Stone (David); Indiana; and his six beloved grandchildren: Ava L.Virga and Sienna I.Virga of Watertown; Father Michael Virga (Emily) of Massachusetts; Caitlin G. Virga of Illinois; Brittoni Stone of Florida; and William Stone of Ohio. He is also survived by his three sisters, Barbara Ranous (James) of Ballston Lake, Linda Annorino (Joseph) of Oswego and Mickey Cotter (Tom) of Oswego, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Fran’s parents Wilson Francis Clark (1960) and Rose Clark (2004) have already passed away.

Fran’s spirit and memory will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. He will be remembered for his zest for life, his unwavering commitment to family, and his dedication to education and sports…a true testament to a life well lived.

At the request of the family, a private burial will be held at St. Peter’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to: American Cancer Society B. Thomas Golisano Hope Lodge, 1120 S Goodman St., Rochester, NY 14620, cancer.org/HopeLodgeRochesterNYDonate UR Medicine Wilmont Cancer Center, 601 Elmwood Ave., Rochester, NY 14642. urmc.rochester.edu/cancer-institute/giving/make-ag Arrangements are made under the loving care of Nelson Funeral Home in charge.

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