Sally M. Clarke of Utica passed away peacefully on Monday, April 27, 2026, at the age of 78, at the Masonic Care Community, surrounded by her loving family.

     Born in Rome, New York, on May 6, 1947, Sally was the daughter of Alvin Sr. and Helen (LaQuay) Weiler. She grew up in West Leyden as the eldest of eight siblings, a role she embraced with love and pride. A graduate of Adirondack High School, Sally made the most of her school years—cheering on the team, twirling her baton, and making lifelong friends.

     On August 12, 1967, Sally married the love of her life, Francis “Fran” E. Clarke, in West Leyden. Together, they shared over 25 wonderful years filled with laughter, joy, and dancing. The two could always be found at the Vets Club in Yorkville, lighting up the dance floor and bringing smiles to everyone around them.

     Sally worked for several department stores before retiring from Fraternal Composites in Yorkville. She was a woman of many talents—an avid bowler, a joyful gardener, a skilled seamstress, and above all, a devoted mother. She loved raising her three children and took every opportunity to host gatherings for family and friends. Sally had a heart big enough for everyone; her door was always open, and she was the first to lend a helping hand.

     In her later years, Sally found happiness spending her winters with her loving companion Bob in Pompano Beach, Florida, a place that brought her great comfort and sunshine, and which they eventually made their home. But nothing brought Sally more joy than her family—especially her grandsons, whose games and school events were always highlights of her days. A woman of deep faith, Sally was a devoted parishioner of Mary, Mother of Our Savior Parish, Our Lady of Lourdes Campus in Utica.

   Sally is survived by her three loving children: Scott (Suzanne) Clarke of Jacksonville, FL; Rick Clarke and Jessica of Deerfield; and Sherry Reeves and her “favorite son-in-law” Milton Reeves Jr. of Utica. She also leaves behind her two cherished grandsons, Marquis Reeves of Utica and Eric Clarke of Deerfield; and her loving companion of over 17 years, Robert Kopek of New Hartford. Her loyal dog and “other son,” Rudy, was her daily joy and constant sidekick.

     She is also survived by her brothers and sisters: Gary (Robin) Weiler of Taberg; Nancy (Brian) Dumont of West Leyden; Susan (Rick) Malek of Rome; Carol (Jim) Dykstra of Cooperstown; Wayne (Tina) Weiler of Boonville; Margaret Weiler of Boonville; and Tammy Weiler of West Leyden; as well as sisters-in-law Debbie Clarke of Utica, Karen Clarke of Tonawanda, and Linda Clarke of Delmar. Sally will be lovingly remembered by her many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

     She now joins in heaven her beloved husband Fran; her parents, Alvin and Helen; her brothers Robert Alan, Alvin “Jim” Jr., and Terry Sr.; and several of her cherished in-laws. No doubt, they were all waiting with open arms—and music playing—for her to join the celebration above.  

      Family and friends are invited to call on Saturday, May 2, 2026, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Mary, Mother of Our Savior Parish, Our Lady of Lourdes Campus, 2222 Genesee Street, Utica. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 a.m., with burial beside her beloved Fran in St. Joseph Cemetery, Yorkville.

     The family extends heartfelt thanks to the Saratoga Wing staff at the Masonic Care Community for their wonderful and compassionate care during her short stay there.

     In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Sally’s memory to Mary, Mother of Our Savior Parish, Our Lady of Lourdes Campus, 2222 Genesee Street, Utica, NY 13502. Envelopes will be available at the church.