Charles Henry Clem's Obituary
Charles Henry Clem, 88, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, passed away on Saturday morning, November 1, 2025.
Charles was born on September 21, 1937, in Malvern, Arkansas, to Bert Sanders and Una Wanda (Bates) Clem. He grew up in Malvern, where he spent countless happy hours playing baseball with his neighborhood friends.
Following high school, Charles graduated from Eaton Barber College and embarked on a career that would span many years. He worked as a barber before eventually transitioning into the janitorial cleaning business. It was at a Bible study in Pine Bluff that Charles met the love of his life, Evelyn. The couple married on December 22, 1973, in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, beginning a devoted marriage of over 51 years. Together, they raised their two sons in Hot Springs, Arkansas.
Charles and Evelyn shared a heart for service, spending many years ringing bells together for the Salvation Army. Charles had a deep passion for Southern Gospel music and served as a radio DJ, sharing his love for the Gaithers, the Blackwood Brothers, and numerous quartets and trios with his listeners.
Those who knew Charles remember him as exceptionally kind and soft-spoken, with a wonderful sense of humor. He loved being around people and had an infectious laugh that brightened any room. Charles was tremendously devoted to his grandchildren and found great joy in their company. He was gracious and accommodating, always ready with a thoughtful note or card for someone who needed encouragement. Charles delighted in life's simple pleasures-especially home cooking and Braum's ice cream.
Charles is survived by his two sons, John Clem and his wife Rachel, and Daniel Clem and his wife Shelley; four beloved grandchildren, Lydia, Naomi, Phoebe, and Esther. His devoted wife, Evelyn, passed away just two days after Charles, on November 3, 2025.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Bert and Una Clem; his sister, Jeannie Mae Hughes; and his brothers, Herbert and Elwood Clem.
A funeral ceremony honoring both Charles and Evelyn will be held at 10:00 AM on Friday, November 7, 2025, in the Rivercrest Chapel. The family will receive visitors from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Thursday, November 6, 2025, also in the chapel. Interment will follow at 12:00 PM on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at Oak Ridge Cemetery in Malvern, Arkansas.
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