Coping with Grief
We would like to offer our sincere support to anyone coping with grief. Enter your email below for our complimentary daily grief messages. Messages run for up to one year and you can stop at any time. Your email will not be used for any other purpose.
Eric J Clarke, of Westfield, Massachusetts, passed away on Monday, March 16, 2026, at the age of 49 after a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by his loving family and friends.
Born January 31, 1977, Eric grew up in Southwick, where he cultivated a lifelong passion for art and music. He graduated from Southwick Regional High School in 1995 and went on to earn a four-year degree from Pratt Institute in 1999. He further pursued and earned a Master’s degree in Illustration from the University of Hartford.
Eric’s greatest titles were husband and father. He is survived by his devoted wife of 12 years, Meagan Clarke, who he shared joyful times with alongside their two daughters, Emily and Caroline, who brought him endless pride and happiness. He is also survived by his brothers, Adam and Wes Clarke, and his mother and father, Donna and Wes Clarke. He was deeply cherished by a wide circle of family and friends who were touched by his generosity, humor, and kindness.
A devoted educator, Eric taught art at Suffield Middle School, where he inspired countless students with his creativity, patience, and belief in their potential. Beyond the classroom, he touched many lives through his creative artwork and his involvement in Western Massachusetts’ punk rock scene, where his energy, passion, and commitment to his community resonated with others.
Eric’s legacy lives on in the art he created, the students he mentored, the music he played, and the love he shared with his family. He will be remembered for his warmth, his distinct artistic vision, and his unwavering dedication to making the world a more colorful place.
Visiting hours for Eric will be held on Saturday, March 21, 2026 from 11AM-3PM in the Firtion Adams Funeral Service, 76 Broad St. Westfield, MA. www.firtionadams.com
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations for the education and assistance for his daughters, Emily and Caroline c/o Meagan Clarke, 243 Holyoke Rd. Westfield, MA 01085.
To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.