Susan A. Clarke

MONMOUTH – Susan A. Clarke, 79, of Monmouth, passed away on Tuesday, July 2, 2024, at her home with loving family members by her side. She was born on November 24, 1944, in Fall River, Mass., the daughter of John Franklin Asquith and Charlotte Elizabeth (Swett) Asquith.

Susan was a graduate of North Yarmouth Academy, and then the University of New Hampshire. After some time working in Philadelphia, Susan returned to New Hampshire where, on August 19, 1972, she married John C. Clarke of New London, N.H. A few years later, Susan and her family returned to Yarmouth, Maine, where they resided for approximately 30 years. During this time, Susan was dedicated to her career as an Occupational Therapist; she was extremely well respected in her field, and she was proud of her work. She also enjoyed numerous hobbies, including reading, oil painting, cross-stitching, and – with particular enthusiasm – genealogy. Her passion for genealogy instigated numerous trips throughout New England and Eastern Canada in search of her families’ (her own and John’s) histories. Later, she applied her skills to help extended family members and friends. Susan also served as a Girl Scout leader in Yarmouth for many years (having been a Girl Scout herself), where she empowered girls to do everything from traditional crafts to cold-weather camping. 

In 2006, Susan (and John) relocated to Monmouth to be closer to her growing family. At first, Susan continued her career part-time, and spent her “days off” helping to raise her two granddaughters, which she did with dedication, great love, and good humor. Upon retirement, she committed even more time to her granddaughters. She was a clever and patient teacher and guide. Susan had a large repertoire of silly songs, and frequently regaled her granddaughters with favorite stories of her youth. Susan’s memories of her youth were a large part of her identity. She spoke fondly of time spent as a child with her family at her grandparent’s summer home in Little Compton, R.I. (“the Country”). She also told of boating adventures with her parents and two brothers; they spent many summer weekends overnighting aboard their small cruisers along the coast of Maine. Susan was also a horse-lover; as a young woman, she was an English-style rider and judged equestrian events. 

After retirement, Susan enjoyed serving as a longtime and highly valued member of the board of trustees for the Cumston Library (in Monmouth), where she also served as chair for many years. Overall, Susan will be remembered by most who knew her for her intelligence, integrity, and sense of humor.

Susan is survived by her husband, John Clarke, a daughter, Shearon J. Murphy and husband Kyle of Winthrop, a brother, Peter Asquith and wife Doriane of Brunswick, a sister-in-law, Kathi Asquith and husband Doug Conway of Old Orchard, two granddaughters, Anabeth and Aerilynn Murphy, and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, and a brother, Robert Franklin Asquith.

Messages of condolences may be made to: www: finleyfuneralhome.com.

A private graveside service will be held at the Riverside Cemetery, Smith Street, Yarmouth, Maine 04096. Arrangements by BRAGDON-FINLEY FUNERAL HOME, 707 Main Street, Monmouth, Maine.