Michael R. Clement

CLEMENT, MICHAEL R., 69, of Providence, passed away on April 16, 2016.  Born on June 21, 1946, he was the beloved son of Maurice L. Clement and the late William D. Seals.  He was the husband of the late Leslee J. (Almeida) Clement.  He is survived by his daughters, Regina L. Clement and Nicole R. Clement, both of Providence.  He was the brother of Vincent D. Clement and his companion, Elizabeth Gomes of Providence, Leroy J. Clement and his wife Vergie of Texas and Robert S. Clement of Burrillville, as well as many family and friends. 

In 1991, Mr. Clement was elected as the first African American City Clerk of the City of Providence.  He served in that role until his retirement in 2006.  His commitment to public service spans 33 years, included serving as First and Second Deputy City Clerk of the City of Providence and the Director of the Davey Lopes Recreation Center.  His love for his community and civic responsibility are evident through his service on the board of  directors of the Omni Development Corporation, John Hope Settlement House, South Providence Boys & Girls Club,

Providence Corporation and Wiggins Village Apartments, his participation as a member of the 11th Democratic Ward Committee and the Prince Hall Masons (Prince Hall Grand Lodge); and his affiliation with the Best Friends Foundation and Progress for Providence.  “Mike” was a tough kid with great athletic ability.  He attended Central High School in Providence, where he played football and basketball.  He made memorable contributions in both high school and as a member of the South Side Intruders.  In 1972, he received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from Roger Williams University in Bristol.  Mike loved to fish.  He enjoyed deep sea fishing and often shared his catch with family and friends at summer cookouts.  His fried fish is legendary and his top secret seasoning remains a mystery to this day.  Mike was a fan of HBCU college football and helped organize annual bus trips to the Rhode Island Football Classic at the Meadowlands in New Jersey.  He was an avid collector of black memorabilia with a wonderful collection of hats, t-shirts, jackets and posters of the Negro League Baseball Teams, the Buffalo Soldiers and the Tuskegee Airmen.

Mike was a proud father, a dedicated public servant and a great friend.  He will be dearly missed by his family and the many friends who knew and loved him.

The funeral will be held on Friday, April 22 at 10 A.M. at the BELL FUNERAL HOME, 571 Broad Street, Providence.  Calling hours will be held on Thursday, April 21 from 6-9 P.M.  Burial at Gate of Heaven Cemetery will be private.

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