Willie Otha Clarke peacefully passed away on August 19, 2023, at the age of 81. In the sixties, Willie relocated to the Washington, DC area to build a better life for herself and her children. She secured a position with the United States Senate and retired in 1998 while working for Maryland Senator Barbara Mikulski. During her time at the Senate, she forged connections with numerous individuals in the building, taking moments to engage in conversations with all of them. Even in retirement. She pursued part-time roles, leaving an indelible mark on everyone she interacted with.

Willie had a variety of cherished pastimes. She loved celebrating special occasions at her favorite restaurant. Crisfield Seafood, located on Georgia Ave. She held a deep affection for shopping, both for herself__particularly purses and shoes___and for others. She frequently composed shopping lists and bought gifts well before the holiday season, simply to indulge in the act of shopping. Famously, her late night movie watching and kichen raids for snacks brought her great pleasure. Throughout her life, Willie wholeheartedly embraced her passions, deriving happiness from them until her final days. Her warm and spirited nature will be profoundly missed.

Willie leaves behind her children; Ursula Payne, Otha Clarke, and Lardyn Marcus. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Ernest Payne, Ebonie Moore, Nalaja Marcus, Madontrinique Clarke, Gerald Marcus II, Nashaun Payne, and Otha Clarke II. Her legacy continues with eleven great grandchildren, three nieces, and two nephews. She is preceded in death by her Matthew Payne (father), Queenie Payne (mother), Dorothy Thomas (sister), Edward Payne (brother), and Marco Clarke (son).

Willie will be forever remembered and loved by her family, friends, and all the lives she touched.