Obituary of Clarence Edward Spurlock, Sr.

Clarence Edward Spurlock, Sr. was born September 27, 1958 in the City of Kalamazoo to the union of  Della A. Spurlock and Jimmie Spurlock, Sr.  He was the fourth of nine children (3 boys and 6 girls). He was named for two Uncles, one from each parent and was a favorite with each of them. 

Clarence loved to cook, read and socialize.  Always knowledgeable and up-to-date, he was constantly very aware of local and national news events. He also enjoyed reading just as much and loved sharing his opinion on numerous subjects with all who would listen. Should you disagree with his opinion, be prepared for an ensuing discussion to persuade you to his side. His cooking was limited to a few specialty items, but those few dishes were top notch and we all loved them. 

Clarence was also a bona-fide prankster thru and thru!  As a child, he especially loved scaring his sisters, and others as well  if they happen to be present when he carried out his plan.  He was always delighted by the surprise reactions he got more often than not. 

Clarence accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior at an early age. He was baptized in Allen Chapel AME Church under Rev. D. H. Harris.  He attended Northglade Elementary and South Middle schools in Kalamazoo. He also attended Piney Wood School in Piney Woods, MS, where he also played on the basketball team.  Later, he attended Kalamazoo Valley Community College (KVCC).

He is the father of one daughter, Nayakia  (Deon) Bates and two sons, Clarence Edward Spurlock, Jr. and Andrew James Spurlock.  He is also the loving Grandfather to eight grandchildren.   

Clarence passed away July 25, 2019 in the comfort of his home in Kalamazoo. He leaves behind to cherish his memory and mourn his absence, along with his children, his loving and devoted Mother, Elder Della Spurlock-Redding and siblings: Donald  R. ( Ruth) Watson , Kalamazoo, MI;  Dorothy A. Spurlock, Canton, MI;  Artelia L. Spurlock, Kalamazoo, MI; Crystal F. Spurlock- Beeks,Merrillville, IN; Gaynela R. Spurlock, Kalamazoo, MI; Bessie (Joe) Palmore,Portage, MI and a special friend, Lori Smith, Kalamazoo, MI.  His grandchildren: Nasir E. Spurlock; Malia O.Spurlock, Orion U Spurlock; Rhett William Spurlock; Ariyah A. Spurlock; and Zae’on A. Spurlock.

He is preceded in death by his father, Jimmie Spurlock, Sr., his step-father, Robert E. Redding, sisters: Mary J. (Benny) Spurlock-Ware and Barbara J. Spurlock and brothers:  PFC Orlando U. Spurlock, Jimmie Spurlock, Jr. and Roosevelt Spurlock.