Biographical Sketch of Dr. William Alexander Clark
January 1, 1868 – July 8, 1937
Doctor William (Will) Alexander Clark was born in Jackson, Madison County, Tennessee to the farming couple of James Harrison and Harriet A. C. Alexander. His father’s occupation had changed from farming in the 1870 census to teaching school in the 1880 census. “Will went to the country schools of Tennessee, and at the age of 18 years (1886) began teaching in the rural schools of Franklin County, Arkansas; it was his desire to enter the practice of medicine and he began reading for that purpose when 19 years of age. He afterward became a student in the MO Medical College and was graduated from the College of Physicians and Surgeons with the class of 1892. H e opened an office at Bald Knob in 1889 and through the intervening years, covering a third of a century, continued in the general practice of medicine and surgery. He took postgraduate work in the Chicago Polyclinic and he was justly accounted a most skilled and able physician. He devoted practically his entire time and attention to his profession. He was a Royal Arch Mason, a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and was on the Board of Education.” 1
On February 6, 1890 Will and Ollie F. Lumpkin were married in White County. In the 1900 census they were the parents of a son and daughter, Carl L. and Lucille.
Dr. Clark died unexpectedly, living only a few hours after being taken ill July 8 1937. His obituary reads: “In the passing of Dr. W. A. Clark early yesterday morning, the community loses more than a good doctor. He has officiated at the births and deaths of the people of Bald Knob and vicinity for more than a quarter of a century, and has answered the summons himself. He was a friend to all, a good father and husband – what more can we say except that we will miss him. Dr. Clark graduated from the St. Louis University School of Medicine in 1899 and practiced in Bald Knob 47 years.” 2
“He was 69 years old and one of the leading physicians and best citizens of the county.”3
Dr. Clark lies buried in Shady Grove Cemetery, Bald Knob, White County, Arkansas.
1 “The Clark Family History” By Linda Benson Cox, 2003; Edited, 2006, pp 35-37
2 Find A Grave, Memorial ID 24551237
3 The Daily Citizen, Searcy, Arkansas, July 8, 1937
John T. Mitchell, BBA
February 15, 2025