On January 15, 2026, William Ryan Clark known affectionately as Billy passed away peacefully in Pinehurst, North Carolina, at the age of 53. In the presence of his family, he found rest following a journey of over seven years confronting prostate cancer, a battle he faced with extraordinary fortitude and resolve.
A native of Southern Pines, he was the youngest of three brothers, raised in a household where athletics, visits to the coast, and regular attendance at church were foundational. He was the son of Cheryl Clark of Pinehurst and William Clark of Lakewood, Florida. These formative years instilled in him a deep appreciation for family, faith, and life’s simpler pleasures, which sustained him throughout his life.
His academic path led him through Pinecrest High School to graduation, followed by the pursuit of a finance degree at Elon University. Billy established a firm professional trajectory, yet in 2009 he felt a compelling call to return home. He joined the family enterprise, Clark Chevrolet Cadillac in Pinehurst, where he remained for the duration of his career, contributing to a legacy that proudly carries the Clark name.
Above all else, he derived his greatest pride from his role as a father. His daughter Hayley, 22, and twin sons Aiden and Carter, 17, constituted the center of his universe. Billy invested his heart fully in these relationships, guiding his children with unwavering affection and intentional presence. He held these bonds, alongside his steadfast faith in his Lord and Savior, as his most profound treasures.
In more private hours, Billy would often take up his guitar, allowing melodies to provide both expression and solace. He was an ardent follower of Duke basketball, cheering with genuine fervor. The daily companionship of his dog, Betty, brought him consistent joy. These personal passions reflected the essence of the man—a person characterized by warmth, devotion, and a profound gratitude for life’s blessings.
A gathering to honor his memory will be held on Wednesday, January 21, at First Baptist Church of Southern Pines, located at 200 East New York Avenue. Visitation will commence at noon, followed by a service at 1:00 p.m. This occasion will provide an opportunity to share recollections and celebrate the illumination Billy brought into the lives of so many.
Billy Clark leaves behind a legacy defined by resilience and deep affection. His fight against illness demonstrated remarkable valor. His commitment as a parent and a man of faith resonated deeply within Pinehurst and beyond. Although his life concluded prematurely, his spirit endures through his children, his music, his family’s business, and the abundant warmth he so generously shared.