Maurice Belford Clark was born on January 8, 1933, in Montgomery, Alabama, to Maurice Belford Clark and Anna Todd Clark. While his birthplace may have been in Alabama, Maurice’s heart and spirit were forever tied to Texas, where he was raised and spent the majority of his life. After his family settled in San Antonio, Maurice graduated from Edison High School, an institution that would hold great significance for him throughout his life.

Following high school, Maurice pursued his academic interests at Texas State University, where he furthered his education and laid the foundation for a career devoted to both learning and teaching. His love for his country led him to serve in the United States Air Force, where he became a skilled pilot. Maurice served his country with pride, and after fulfilling his military commitment, he returned to the civilian world, ready to contribute in a new way.

Maurice’s passion for education and his commitment to inspiring the next generation led him back to Edison High School, where he began teaching Biology, sharing his knowledge and love for science with his former classmates and the students of his hometown. Maurice didn’t stop at teaching, however—he continued to further his own education, always striving to better himself both personally and professionally.

After several years, Maurice took on a new role at Our Lady of the Lake University, where he would spend 32 years as a professor of Biology. His dedication to his students, his field, and his craft earned him recognition as a Professor Emeritus upon his retirement, a title that reflected both his hard work and the deep respect he had garnered among his peers and students alike.

In addition to his career in education, Maurice had a lifelong passion for the outdoors. This love manifested in his ranching interests in both Comal County, Texas—his home for 64 years—and Atascosa County, which he often referred to as “God’s country.” His connection to the land was profound, and he was deeply involved in the agricultural community, becoming a former member of the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association. He was also a director for life of the Texas Sheep and Goat Raisers Association, where his contributions were felt by many in the industry.

Maurice’s zest for life extended to a variety of hobbies and interests. Whether it was fishing, hunting, reading, listening to classical music, or spending time with his beloved Border Collies, he found joy in the simple pleasures of life. Maurice’s love for these activities was matched only by his devotion to his family, which was the cornerstone of his life.

Maurice’s family, especially his wife, Patricia (Patsy), were at the heart of his world. The two were married for 67 years, building a life together filled with love, companionship, and shared memories. Their bond was a testament to the strength of their commitment to one another. Maurice is also survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Kimberly Lynn and James Kissling, as well as his grandchildren, Gretchen Juliet and Cameron Clark Kissling. His sister-in-law, Anne Clark, nieces Dr. Kristi Clark (Eric Kelner), and Traci Clark, as well as two great-nieces, also carry on his legacy.

Maurice’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, but his influence and the values he embodied continue to live on in his family, his former students, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. Maurice Belford Clark’s life was one of service, dedication, and an enduring love for his country, his work, his passions, and most of all, his family. His legacy of teaching, ranching, and a love for the outdoors will forever be remembered.