Lucy Pearl Rexrode Clarkson, 101, passed away Sunday, September 21, 2025, in the comfort of her home in Arbovale.
Born June 4, 1924, she was a daughter of the late Arlie Cecil and Media Alice Sponaugle Rexrode.
Pearl married the love of her life, Russell Clarkson, November 18, 1942, at Monterey, Virginia. At the time of Russell’s death on January 2, 2002, they had been married 59 years.
After Pearl and Russell were married, they moved to Baltimore, Maryland, and worked at the Glen Martin Aircraft Factory. Pearl was a Rosie the Riveter, operated a drill press and worked on planes there. After living three years in Baltimore, they returned to Cass and both worked for the Mower Lumber Company until 1960. After that, they both worked at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory in Green Bank until they retired. While working at the Observatory, the couple built a house in Arbovale and moved from Cass to Arbovale.
In 2017, Pearl went to live with her daughter and best friend, Wanda Jean Raupach, in Bluemont, Virginia. Pearl and Jean were grateful and happy to have this time together. Jean passed away August 28, 2025. With the help of her devoted and loving caregiver, Stephanie Grant, Pearl returned to her home in Arbovale after Jean’s passing.
Pearl was an active member of the Arbovale United Methodist Church where she served as financial secretary for many years. She was also a member of the Cass Chapter #124 OES for more than 70 years.
In addition to her parents, husband and daughter, Pearl was preceded in death by her siblings, Icie Murphy, Creola Brubaker, Catherine Pugh, Irene Rexrode, Hubert Rexrode, George Rexrode and Guy Rexrode.
She is survived by nieces and nephews and many friends that she considered family.
Pearl was a loving and kind person who generously and quietly gave to others. In Pearl’s memory, may we strive to do the same.
A celebration of life will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, September 27, 2025. at the Arbovale United Methodist Church with Pastors David Rittenhouse and Amy Paul officiating. Burial will follow at Arbovale Cemetery.
Friends may call from noon to time of service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Mountain Hospice, 1002 South Crim Avenue, Belington, WV 26250, Arbovale United Methodist Church c/o Jane Gordon, 3473 N Fork Loop, Green Bank WV 24944 or a charity of your choice.
Online condolences may be shared at www.WallaceandWallaceFH.com
