Elder Isaac Abraham Clarke, 74, of Matawan, NJ, transitioned into his heavenly rest on May 13, 2020. He was born on June 14, 1945 in Doncaster Manchester, Jamaica to the late Alfred Clarke and Loretta Palmer.
Isaac, otherwise known in Jamaica as "Tony," was educated in the Craighead All Age school system. At the early age of 14, Isaac relocated with his brother Sterling to the city of Kingston, Jamaica where he became skilled in gardening during the day, and for his night hours was known for his fancy attire. After some time, Isaac became interested in learning automotive repair. A local father figure, Mr. Lopez took him in and taught him all about repairing vehicles. Even though he began to secure a career in the Police Force as a Constable, Corporal, then finally a Sergeant over an 8 year period, Isaac's love for automotive repair always stayed with him.
In June of 1975, Isaac relocated to the United States in Long Branch, New Jersey, working for Kitson Chevrolet. When and opportunity opened at Anchor Glass in Cliffwood, NJ, he obtained that job and secured his finances so that he could go back to Jamaica in 1977 and marry the woman he loved, Elaine Clarke. God was drawing Isaac during that time and he was led to Cliffwood Community Church of Christ under Pastor Bishop James H. Clark. His wife and two children joined along with him. He was baptized in the name of Jesus Christ the winter of 1978 during mid-day prayer at Cliffwood Church, he received the power of the Holy Spirit the summer of 1979 at his apartment in Keyport, NJ. When he returned to work after being filled with the Holy Spirit and was telling all his coworkers about Jesus.
Soon after, Isaac was called to ministry, and he began studying at The Church of Christ Bible Institute under the organization, Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ. He faithfully traveled to New York to study God's Word, and he received many awards and Theology degree and became an ordained Minister, then Elder in COOLJC. He was an awesome teacher and fiery preacher of the Word of God. He loved to teach everyone about Jesus Christ, His death, burial, resurrection and gift of the Holy Spirit for all. His ambition even had him star "The Blessed Hope" bible study session in his basement on County Rd. in Cliffwood, NJ.
Elder Clarke would pick up all his children's friends for Sunday School, always urging them to gain a relationship and knowledge of God. If you came to the house he'd ask you if you knew Jesus. At family cookouts and Holiday gatherings, he'd always bring his Bible, ready for biblical discussion. His last job before retirement, at the ARC of Monmouth in Eatontown, NJ, he'd even teach the Word of God to the mentally disabled adults that he cared for. He'd bring some of them to church so they can have an experience with the Lord Jesus. Even in his imperfections, Elder Clarke never let go of his faith in God. He ALWAYS held on to Jesus, knowing he was the author and finisher of his faith. During Elder Clarke's last years, he joined First Antioch Church in Trenton, NJ under Pastor Larry Fore, and enjoyed fellow-shipping with the people of God there. Whether walking or wheelchair, dialysis machines or nursing home, Elder Clarke always strived to be in the house of God, giving God thanks and praise until his last breath.
Elder Clarke is preceded in death by his father Alfred and mother Loretta; his brothers Ronald, Sterling, Clifton, David & Riley and grandson DeMar.
Left to mourn are his brothers Rueben (Sharon) & Linford (Judith); sister Gaye (Stedman); his children Winsome, Karen (Charles), Dahlia, Andrew (Nadine), Camille (Mario) & Renee; his grandchildren Kemar, Junior, Diandra, Caston, Dominic, Mario Jr., Darius, Sasha & Asha; his godchildren Shauna & Candice as well as a host of cousins, nieces & nephews, his special friends the McDonalds, Ellingtons, Richards & Crocket.
Rest on until you hear that trumpet sound in that great getting up morning!
*Due to the COVID-19 pandemic following nationwide social distancing all services are private. We appreciate your understanding.*
God knows the depth of your love and only he can bring the comfort your heart needs. Praying he’ll be your strength and give you the peace as you go through this.
“My flesh and my heart may fail but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” Psalm 73:26 We will miss you you were like a brother to us.
Thank you Keith. The McDonalds have truly been a blessing from the beginning. Love ya’ll!
To my Father, Elder Isaac Abraham Clarke, I wouldn’t be the strong God-fearing, spirit filled woman I am today without you. Your life made my life the better, eternally. I’m so grateful to call you father and friend. I’m going to miss you enormously. Enjoy your glorious rest until we meet again. Thank you for everything! I love you sooooo much! XOXOXO
To the bereaved family and friends of Isaac, accept my profound condolences. Isaac and I shared good fellowship as ministers in Christ. I regret that I was unable to visit him prior to his passing. He was a genuine and kind person. I will certainly miss him. My prayers are with the family.
Pastor Watson.
Thank you Pastor Watson. Elder Clarke surely loved you and your family. He enjoyed having those Bible discussions with you. Be blessed by his memories. : )