Tim Clarkson, Smithson Valley High School, Texas – The Smithson Valley High School community and beyond are mourning the loss of Tim Clarkson, a beloved football and wrestling coach, who passed away recently. Tim Clarkson, who spent 35 years as an educator and coach in Texas, had a profound impact on many students and colleagues throughout his career.
Clarkson was a well-respected figure in the educational and sports communities, serving at several institutions, including Second Baptist School and St. Thomas Catholic High School in Houston. He was notably an assistant coach on Rock Hutson’s 1999 TAPPS state championship football team and a 7-time state championship wrestling coach at St. Thomas. At the time of his passing, he was in his sixth season at Comal Smithson Valley.
The news of Clarkson’s passing was confirmed through a heartfelt social media post, which read, "We’ve learned this morning that former Houston Second Baptist School and Houston St. Thomas Catholic High School wrestling and football coach Tim Clarkson passed away yesterday."
The community has been sharing their grief and memories of Tim Clarkson on social media. Smithson Valley High School PTSA expressed their sorrow, stating, "We are absolutely heartbroken to hear of this huge loss of an amazing coach & educator at SVHS. Please keep the entire Ranger Community in your prayers."
Sara Kendrick echoed these sentiments, asking the community to "Please keep the Tim Clarkson family in your thoughts and prayers." Similarly, Mary Mackey Schumock shared her personal memories and offered prayers for the Clarkson family, saying, "Our cousins are like the first friends we had. Growing up together, going to Grandmas house on the farm and then in town to Iola, my heart is so broken for Aunt Janet Clarkson, Ron Clarkson, and Kristi Clarkson Pharaon. Prayers for the family during this difficult time."
Christopher Fronk and Carla Elizabeth Swink also shared their condolences, with Swink noting, "They are in my prayers."
A close friend and fellow coach reflected on their time with Clarkson, stating, "Many years ago, I met Tim Clarkson on the campus of North Shore High School!! We coached together on that staff!! Today I learned that Tim passed away!! Please pray for Tim’s family in this very difficult time!!"
Funeral details are yet to be announced by the family. The community continues to rally in support, offering prayers and memories of a man who dedicated his life to the education and mentorship of young people.