Dana Jo Clark

Dana Jo (Kelley) Clark passed away on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at the age of 52.

Dana was a free spirit with a big personality and an even bigger heart. She loved hard, laughed often, and had a way of brightening the day of those around her. She loved making people smile, whether it was with a joke, one of her funny T-shirts, or simply by being Dana.

She enjoyed drawing and being outdoors, and she loved the freedom of riding on a motorcycle. Dana was always ready for an adventure and rarely backed down from a dare. She was the life of the party and was known for breaking into one of her dance parties and proudly showing off what she called her “white girl dance.” And anyone who knew Dana knew about her nails—they always had to be painted.

Dana worked at The Barn in Ava, a place that became much more than a job to her. It was her second home, and through her time there she made many friendships that she treasured.

Of all the roles Dana had in her life, one of the most special was being “GiGi.” She loved her grandchildren, Jaelynn Maggard, Weston Deatherage, and Athena Deatherage.

Dana was preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Linda Kelley of Mansfield; her grandparents, Floyd and Juanita Kelley of Mansfield; and her grandmother, Joanna Huffman of Ava.

She leaves behind her partner, Wayne Williams of Ava; her daughter, Brittany Deatherage and husband Chris of Sparta; and her siblings, Kathy Bradshaw and husband Rusty of Norwood, Amy Kelley of Ava, John Matney of Mansfield, Jacob Kelley of Ava, and Jessica Davidson and husband Jerry of Ava. Dana also leaves behind many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless friends whose lives are a little brighter because Dana was a part of them.

Dana lived life with humor, love, and a spirit that was completely her own. She wasn’t afraid to be silly, to laugh at herself, or to make sure everyone around her was having a good time. Those who loved her will remember the laughter, the dancing, the painted nails, the funny shirts, the adventures, and most of all, the unmistakable personality that made Dana simply Dana.

Cremation services for Dana are being conducted by Clinkingbeard Funeral Home, Ava, MO. The family will have a celebration of life at a later date.