Joseph Anthony “Toney” Clark was born on October 26, 1961, at Queen of the World Hospital in Kansas City, Missouri, to Mary E. Brown Clark and Dr. Granville E. Clark Sr. Both of his parents preceded him in death.

Toney received his early education at J.S. Chick and Immanuel Lutheran Elementary Schools. He later graduated from Rockhurst High School and continued his education at Morehouse College and the University of Missouri Kansas City.

At a very early age, Toney accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. His faith remained a central part of his life, and he was actively involved in church communities in both Kansas City, Missouri and Atlanta, Georgia, places he considered home. He was also a founding member of the Kansas City chapter of the Onyx Fellowship.

Toney dedicated his life and career to service and advocacy. He was a trailblazer in his work, contributing to organizations such as the Ryan White Planning Council, The Good Samaritan Project, and the AIDS Research Consortium. While living in Chicago, he served as an Executive Director of an AIDS organization, where he secured grants and developed impactful programs aimed at reducing the risk of HIV.

After relocating to Atlanta, Toney worked at Emory University as a Research Assistant and played a valuable role in their research and recruitment team. He was also actively involved in the National AIDS Research Consortium in Atlanta. Throughout his career, Toney was known for his commitment, leadership, and passion for helping others.

Toney loved deeply and cherished his relationships with family and friends. He is survived by his beloved siblings Granville E. Clark, Robert “Bobby” Clark (Patricia), James E. Clark, Melvin Clark, Joy Rochelle Clark, and Marcia Lopez.

He also leaves to cherish his memory his nieces and nephews Ashley, Tierra, Starr, Kevion, Robert, James, Charles, Mel, and Steven, along with his great nieces and nephews Santiago, Eleanor, Cordellia, Mylo, Melanie, and Nova Bell Song, his newest addition.

Toney shared a special bond with his Godchildren Brandon, Jae, Brittani, Jacob, and Jon, whom he loved dearly.

 He is also remembered by a host of cousins and friends, including special friends Duncan, Torean, Charles, and Crystal, all of whom will continue to honor his life and legacy. Toney was also known for his exceptional culinary skills, and his meals, which brought people together and created lasting memories, will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of sharing them.

Toney’s life was marked by compassion, purpose, and love for others. His legacy will live on through the many lives he touched, the work he championed, and the family and friends who will forever hold him in their hearts.

A funeral service will be held Thursday, March 26, 2026 at Golden Gate Funeral & Cremation Services, LLC, 2800 E. 18th St. Kansas City, MO 64127. The visitation will begin at 10:00am, the service will follow promptly at 11:00am.