James B. Clark was born in Batavia, New York, in 1957, the son of Richard and Ruth (Preston) Clark. He was educated in Goffstown Public Schools and graduated from Bishop Brady High School in Concord, New Hampshire in 1975. He was captain of the cross country team at Plymouth State College and he graduated with a B.A. in 1979. He maintained his love of running throughout his life, bringing home many trophies and awards. He coordinated the Hershey Track program in Goffstown, New Hampshire, for many years, earning him the Clint Robinson Recreation Department Award. He also coached the spring track program at Mount Zion Christian Schools in Manchester, New Hampshire. He was an active member of Bethany Covenant Church in Bedford, New Hampshire, working with the youth group and teaching Sunday school classes. He was also a ready hand at any work project involving the church, community, or school property.

Jim’s love of farm life was well known in the area. He grew up on the family farm, helping with the milking and showing cows at state fairs. As a young adult, he was working out west at ski areas when he was called home suddenly at the time of his father’s death. He continued the farming by raising beef cows and sheep. During this time, he felt called to volunteer at the local fire station as an EMT and was soon hired as a full-time firefighter. He received the Cooperator of the Year Award in 2009 from Hillsborough County (NH) Conservation District for Outstanding Work Applying Best Management Practices for Forestry.

He first worked as a firefighter in Goffstown. In 1987, he moved to the Bedford Fire Department, where he worked until his death. He attained the rank of lieutenant, obtained many certifications, and taught numerous classes to other firefighters and EMTs.

He also was a talented artist and wrote poetry. His pictures and poems reflected the many aspects of his life and continue to bring enjoyment to all.

Jim was a devoted father to his two daughters, Stephanie and Allison, both of Goffstown. They were the joy of his life and brought happiness to his days. In addition to his daughters, he is survived by his mother, Ruth, of Goffstown; his fiancée, Sue Sexton, of Milford, NH; two brothers, Richard (Janice), of Deerfield, NH, and John (Maureen) of Plymouth, NH; and two sisters, Eleanor King (Michael), of Goffstown, and Elizabeth Clark, of Richland, Washington. He is survived by many loved nieces, nephews and cousins.