Jonathan Clark

Hassan

Obituary

Jonathan Clarke Hassan

July 25th, 1918 ~ October 17th, 2016

J onathan Elnathan Clarke, also known as Ellie Clarke, was the fifth child born to Constance (1880-1970) and William Adolphus Clarke (1879-1931). He was born on July 25th, 1918 in Brooklyn, NY. His birth made his family very proud because Jonathan was their native born American son. His birth represented his parents' hopes and dreams that they brought with them when they emigrated from their homeland for a new life in America. Jonathan had five brothers and sisters: Winifred Agnes, William Agar, Archibald, Gladys Olwen, and Dorothy.

The family made Brooklyn, NY their home, sharing their home on Herkimer Street with his "Dear Aunt," Jeanette George. He went to elementary school in Brooklyn, and attended secondary study at Westinghouse High School in downtown Brooklyn. However, his most satisfying experience came when his parents allowed him to transfer to Central Needle Trade School in Manhattan. At Central, he was the first student from that school to win awards for his tailoring work. Central Needle Trade School became his gateway into world of Custom Tailoring. He learned Pattern Making, Design, and Custom Tailoring. Professional entertainers, including Max Roach, Eubie Blake, Thelma Carpenter, and Frank Sinatra, sort him out to design and create fashionable clothing to satisfy their unique needs.

For many years, Jonathan had a Haberdashery Shop on 6th Avenue and 46th Street He also had a Tailor shop on Madison Avenue and 50th Street. He relocated to Brooklyn to work with young people where he opened his own Tailoring School. While doing that, he began teaching tailoring in various programs around the city: Youth in Action, Sports Unlimited.

He taught at Girls and Boys High School and Pratt Institute. He was passionate about passing his talents on to young people, to give them skills that they could use to improve their lives.

Jonathan married Dorothy Walcott on February 28 ^th , 1940 at St. Peter Claver Roman Catholic Church in Brooklyn, NY. From that union two children were born, daughter Dorothea and son Jonathan Jr.

Jonathan converted to Islam in 1975, and changed his name to Jonathan Clarke Hassan. He became a devout Muslim who accepted Allah as the Supreme Being. He expressed gratitude for everything he had, and willingly shared what he had with others. He respected the opinions of others, and as a true Muslim, he believed in family first. He was kind to his relatives, and went out of his way to be supportive of them. He was especially devoted to his parents and to his "Dear Aunt" who was like a mother to him. He often read to seek a deeper knowledge and meaning in life.

Not only did Jonathan generously share his Time, Talents, and Treasures with his family and friends, he was equally charitable within his Muslim Faith community at the Masjid Malcolm Shabazz Mosque. He donated to and supported their programs and activities, especially at the Clara Muhammad Elementary and Secondary School. They recognized him as man who lived his faith.

Jonathan leaves to cherish his memories his children Dorothea and Jonathan Jr., granddaughter Deneen R, grandson Jonathan M, great-grandchildren Jalay and Katlin, niece Gloria (Lincoln) Hill, nephews Otis Carpenter and Dennis (LaVerne) Clarke, many great nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Special mention to Haydee Lopez, Jonathan Hassan's "adopted" daughter. Over the years, Haydee has lovingly cared for him. The family thanks her for her devotion, especially during Jonathan's final months. Haydee was with him at the end, reading to him and playing his favorite music.