Obituary: Kelly Clarke

Kelly Clarke (1964–2026): A Life of Love, Laughter, and Community

RAYMOND, Maine – The community of Raymond, Maine, lost a beloved mother, grandmother, friend, and neighbor with the passing of Kelly Clarke, 62, on September 13, 2026. Born in Biddeford on March 17, 1964, Clarke grew up in South Portland with her parents, Julia and Stephen Minervino, and her siblings. After graduating from South Portland High School in 1982, she launched a career in property management that would last more than three decades with Krainin Real Estate, where she forged lasting friendships among colleagues and clients alike.

Clarke’s personal life was equally rich. She married Thomas “Jay” Clarke, with whom she shared two daughters: Abigail (Abby) and Ellen. Her devotion to her family was matched only by her generosity toward strangers, from helping overwhelmed restaurant staff to always finding a way to make those around her feel loved. In her own words, the greatest joy in life came from spending time with her loved ones and being “Ninny” to her two grandsons, Sawyer Clark and Nolan Grindel, and to the family pets she adored.

An avid collector, Clarke had a passion for antiques and eclectic jewelry, always curating her own wardrobe with unique pieces. She also embraced the modern pastime of Pokémon‑Go, delighting in every Poké‑Stop on her routes and sometimes explaining her enthusiasm to police officers when she parked in an empty lot.

Clarke’s life was marked by an unwavering commitment to her community and an infectious sense of style that left a lasting impression on everyone she met.

Survivors

Kelly is survived by her mother, Julia Minervino; her sister, Laura Minervino; her wife, Robin Elliott; her daughters Abby Clarke and partner Robert, and Ellen Grindel and husband Evan; her grandsons Sawyer Clark and Nolan Grindel; her aunt, Mary Chapman, and husband Bruce. She is also survived by a large extended family of cousins, aunts, and friends.

Predeceased by

Her father, Stephen Minervino; her brother, Andrew Minervino; her former husband, Jay Clarke; her mother‑in‑law, Lyn Clarke; and her beloved dog, Trixie.

Visitation and Memorial Service

Family, friends, and community members are invited to a visitation at Jones Rich & Barnes Funeral Home, 199 Woodford St., Portland, on Wednesday, September 23, from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. The memorial service will begin at 5:30 p.m. The funeral home will accept memorial donations to Maine Needs in lieu of flowers, a cause close to Kelly’s heart.

In Memory

Kelly Clarke’s legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched with her kindness, humor, and warm presence. The community of Raymond remembers her as a shining light, a devoted family woman, and a cherished friend. Her story reminds us that everyday acts of love and generosity leave lasting footprints.