On a beautiful Tuesday of November 22, 1960, Sandra D. (Walker) Clark entered this world by way of the late David and Ina Bell Walker and was the youngest of six siblings. Born and raised in Rochester, NY, Sandra attended James Madison High School, where she excelled as a Track and Field star. During her time at James Madison, she was the recipient of many trophies and medals. Sandra even had the honor of meeting and dining with one of her idols, Olympic Gold Medalist Jesse Owens.
In 1982, Sandra married her high school sweetheart, Richard Clark, with whom she shares two beautiful children. Sandra was employed with the Eastman Kodak Company and Excellus Blue Cross Blue Shield. Many of her hobbies consisted of knitting, cooking and most of all shopping. Sandra was very well known for having some of the best oxtails in the city, which were so good, she had the opportunity to sell her dinners at the Birdcage.
Anyone who knew Sandra knew that she was all about having a good time and was the life of the party. You could catch her on the dance floor at Club Calabash, where she met her long-time partner of 39 years, Jan Denenberg and together they raised five children.
Sandra had a passion for fashion! She had every color leather jacket and mink coat there was and let’s not forget her signature pointy-toed pumps…you could hear her coming from a mile away. Music was her therapy. Sandra often stayed up late listening to old school jams. Her favorite artist was Lenny Williams. Sandra would always express how she wanted to have a birthday party but wouldn’t come unless Lenny was going to be there. On her 55th birthday, her children threw a surprise birthday party and although Lenny could not make it, it was still a party to remember. She lit up the room from beginning to end. Sandra was celebrated and loved by all of her family and friends.
One thing about Sandra, she was one of a kind and always kept it real, never passing judgement on anyone. She always kept you laughing and wondering what she was going to come up with next. All those who knew her felt safe and comfortable with her. Sandra would do and give anything for her children. Her beautiful smile and contagious laugh and heart of gold will truly be missed.
On Good Friday, April 7th, 2023, God called Sandra home as she was surrounded by her loved ones. In true Sandra fashion, she transitioned in her own way. She is predeceased by her loving parents, David and Ina Bell Walker; Brothers, Donnell Walker and Charles “Bubba” Walker and Sister, Helen “Koosie” Payne and beloved fur baby, Babe.
She leaves to cherish her memories, her loving and devoted life-partner of 39 years, Jan Denenberg; her devoted children; Richard “Ricky” (Danni) Clark, Sparkle (Lamont) Griffin, Isiah “Ding” Clark, Miryah “MiMi” Denenberg and Jalen Clark and fur-baby Coco Chanel. Sisters; Phyllis (Lee) Tucker, Kim (Charles) Alvarez. Grandchildren; BreYana Clark, DeAsia Griffin, London Clark, Destiny Griffin, Savannah Clark, Rikki Clark, Richard Clark III, Mia Reed, Kali Clark and Melody Clark. Great-Grandchildren; Brooklynn Lopez, Deion Mitchell, Angel Clark and August Villanueva. Special Sister-in-Law, Darcelle Walker. Best Friend of over 50 years, Kim Hayward – who played a significant role in Sandra’s life. A host of nieces and nephews, cousins and friends near and far.
She and her family (and Kim) were some of the first people I met when I came back to Rochester in ’73. She always had a smile and a kind word. Rest Peacefully Queen.
Peace be with you
I first Sandra at George Mather Forbes School #4. From that day forward, she was always the same loving person. Full of laughter and always with a smile on her face.
To her family and friends, do not think of Sandra as gone away. Know that life holds so many facets, and Earth is only one. She is now resting from her sorrows and tears in a place of warmth and comfort. We know that she lives in the hearts of those she touched, for nothing loved is ever lost.
Her friend,
Dr. Barbara JP Thomas (Washington)
This is my prayers go out to the family and friends
Rest in peace auntie love you from bobby
Rest in Peace My BFF… Love you forever and a day! 💖
We love you Sandra! You will be greatly missed. Sending our love and condolences to your Family!
Roger, Robin Lisa and Kirk Sullivan🙏🏾
RIP Sandra!
Bobby, Kameran and Jordyn Heyward 💜
I met Sandra when I was very young around 10 years old,at the Frost avenue Center. She was so pretty to me. My brothers Prince and Charles were friends with her brother Donnell (R.I.P) Sandra and I both participated in the Jessie Owens Track Meet where we both brought home Trophies. She was fast as Lightning but I beat her that Day.(They let me take off my shoes)… Sandra was a true Natural Beauty. My Sincere Condolences to Her family from the Travets.
I was so sorry to hear of Sandra’s transitioning ! I knew Sandra from Madison , she was always smiling and laughing she was just so warm and genuine . Where ever and when ever you saw Sandra it was like you never lost touch. She was such a Beautiful person. To the family I say Look to God for Strengthen and Guidiance He will help you thru this monumental Transition!
Sincere Condolences to the Family from Gwen Dade
My dear friend Sandra. I was heartbroken to hear of your passing. Last time I spoke to you, you asked me to call and come visit. I’m so sorry I missed the invite and your service. I was told just yesterday April 12, 2024. A year later. You had a beautiful spirit and smile. I have many memories from Champlain Street of your mom asking us where are we going and coming so carefully in late night trying not wake her, but we did everytime. My sincere condolences to your children, grands, Phyllis and all of your family. You were loved and gave. love. Rest In Perfect Peace my friend. I love you
Jenny Dozier