Michael Anthony Clark, Jr.

Michael Anthony Clark Jr. “Red”, age 43, passed away Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at Mercy Regional Medical Center in Ville Platte, Louisiana, leaving behind a family and community who loved him deeply. A Funeral Service will be held on Monday, January 19, 2026 at 11:00 AM in the Chapel at Ardoin's Funeral Home of Ville Platte. 

To know Michael was to love him. Better known as “Red” to most, he had a warmth about him that made people feel instantly comfortable. He was kind, easygoing, and always smiling - the kind of man who never met a stranger and always had a joke ready to make someone laugh. His happiness was genuine, and it radiated to everyone around him.

Red lived a life rooted in hard work. At just 17 years old, he began working in the oilfield and went on to dedicate more than 25 years to the industry, doing work he was proud of. He was dependable, hardworking, and well respected, but his greatest pride was always his family.

He was a devoted father to his son, Taylor Anthony Clark, whom he loved deeply. Red shared a beautiful life with his wife, Hailey Fontenot Clark - his best friend and the love of his life. In addition to raising his son, Taylor, Red proudly embraced his role as a father figure to Hailey’s children, gaining another son, Cappi Soileau, and two daughters, Emma and Elle Soileau, who meant the world to him. Red cherished being a husband and a dad, and nothing meant more to him than being home with his family. Their time together, though tragically cut short, was filled with love and happiness.

Red recently became a proud grandfather to a baby boy, Bryer Scott Clark, a role he was overjoyed to step into. He was also honored to be a godfather to baby Addy Pearl Tate, who adored him and was always laughing at his playful ways - a joy that perfectly reflected who Red was.

In his free time, Red loved the simple things. He enjoyed deer hunting and fishing, cooking a good sauce, and taking “staycations” with Hailey - renting a hotel room for the weekend, visiting the casino, and simply enjoying each other’s company. He was also an avid collector of guns and, something few people knew, had a quiet love for collecting old coins.

Above all else, Red was loving, gentle, and generous with his time and heart. He showed up for the people he cared about, made others feel valued, and filled rooms with laughter and light. His presence was comforting, his smile unforgettable.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 - 8:00 PM on Sunday, January 18, 2026 at Ardoin's Funeral Home of Ville Platte and will resume at 8:00 AM on Monday, January 19, 2026 until the time of service. 

Michael “Red” Clark will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but the love he gave and the joy he brought will live on through the many lives he touched and the countless memories that will be cherished forever.

Condolences may be made at www.ardoinfuneralhomes.com

Arrangements have been entrusted to Ardoin's Funeral Home of Ville Platte.