William Clark Ferrell

Dr. William Clark Ferrell

?William Clark Ferrell was born in Memphis Tennessee on August 18,1928 to Ruth and Robert Webster Ferrell. His father and grandfather, both pharmacists, owned Ferrell's Pharmacy" in Memphis, where, as a boy he often worked as a "soda jerk” and helper and learned about medicines. It was during this time, that he was struck with polio, & experienced a life changing event. His mobility greatly affected, he was fortunately recommended for a revolutionary technique developed by a now famous nurse known as the nun, Sister Kenny. Taking him on as a patient, Sister Kenny treated Clark for polio while teaching doctors and nurses her techniques, and over time, Clark was able to regain his mobility. This experience reinforced his desire to pursue medicine and shaped his desire to help children as a physician.

He graduated from McCallie High School in Chattanooga in 1946 followed by Pre-Med at UT Knoxville.  He graduated in 1951 from the University of Tennessee Medical school in Memphis where he met and married Carol Lee Cratin in 1953. Although he began his residency in Pediatrics, he soon became fascinated in the terrific possibilities of Radiology for saving lives using technology in diagnosis, and finished his residency in Radiology in 1955.  He moved with his family to Gainesville in 1960 where he became only the 2nd radiologist to practice in Hall County Hospital (now N.E. Ga. Medical Center).  He served as the Head of the Radiology at NGMC from 1960 until his retirement in 1993, overseeing huge advancements in radiology diagnostic procedures, and the expansion of both the hospital department and the development of the Imaging Center. He served as Vice Chief of Staff at NGMC, Secretary of the Hall County Medical Society, and was made a Fellow of American College of Radiology. He was also President of Hall County Medical Society and served as Chief of Staff of Hall County Medical Society, 

Voted "Most Witty" in high school, Clark was loved by all who spent time with him for his fun-loving nature and terrific sense of humor. He was especially aware of how "scary" it could be for a child to be in the hospital, and would make time with young patients, to bring a smile to their face with humor & jokes, commenting with a smile that "You can't be afraid if you're laughing!" He also loved teaching and enjoyed any opportunity to share his interests and knowledge with students of all ages from directing the school of Radiologic Technology in Gainesville, to visiting local schools to teach science. While in Memphis, he taught medical residents at UT Medical School as well as several area hospitals including Methodist and Le Bonheur.

  A member of First Presbyterian Church, he took great pride in his years he served as Scoutmaster of local Troup 200. He also taught Sunday school for years, was a deacon and an elder and served on two pulpit committees. Above all else, he loved spending time with his family, and despite his busy schedule was devoted to his wife, children and close friends with whom he enjoyed boating, playing golf & tennis, and traveling with family to many different islands where he enjoyed snorkeling the reefs and fishing. Always fun-loving, full of great ideas. and with a love for adventure; Clark loved life & was determined to make the most of every minute of his 96 years. His motto was “Never give up on the day!” He was an inspiration and an example for all who knew him. 

He is survived by his son William Clark Ferrell (Paula) of Highlands, N.C., his two daughters Laura Ferrell Trice (Robert) of Johns Creek, Ga, & Donna Ferrell Pierson (Jonathan) of Gainesville, his 4 grandchildren: Clark & Robbie Ferrell; and Olivia Kelly (Evan) & Eleanore Trice along with step grandchildren Robert Trice (Vieng), Hope Ries (Brett) along with great grandchildren Harper & Callyn Ries, and Flint & Colt Trice, his sister-in-law Elizabeth Ferrell and numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorial Services will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday September 5 at the First Presbyterian Church in Gainesville, followed immediately by a reception.  In lieu of flowers please send donations to Hospice of Northeast Georgia, the First Presbyterian Church of Gainesville, or the charity of your choice.  

Those wishing to send online condolences to the family may do so at littledavenport.com

Little & Davenport Funeral Home and Crematory, 355 Dawsonville Highway, SW, Gainesville, Georgia 30501 is in charge of arrangements.