Dallas Thornton Clark, age 72, passed away on Monday, July 27, 2026, in Perry County, Kentucky. He was born on Wednesday, November 11, 1953, in Clark County, Kentucky, to the late Herbert Clark and the late Treva Messer Clark. In his younger years, Dallas discovered a passion that would remain with him for a lifetime: the exhilarating atmosphere of the dragstrip. At just 12 years old, he eagerly rode his bike to the racetrack, captivated by the roar of engines and the thrill of competition. That initial spark never dimmed throughout his life. Dallas was a natural when it came to operating machinery. He spent nearly his entire career behind the wheel of various vehicles, starting with a coal truck and ultimately finding a home at Red River Ranch for many years. Dallas' adventurous spirit pushed him beyond the conventional; he embraced new challenges and launched several businesses, including a towing company and farming. For a time, he even took on the responsibility of a Captain at the Powell County Detention Center, showcasing his diverse skill set. Known for his infectious sense of humor, Dallas had a gift for making others smile. He treated everyone with kindness and respect, leaving behind only friends who cherished his presence. Dallas had a zest for life that radiated in his interactions with the people around him. Above all else, Dallas cherished his family. His wife was the center of his universe, and he often took pride in how well he cared for her—a commitment he demonstrated in countless ways. Dallas relished the time spent with his children as they grew, and he found immense joy in his role as a grandfather. One of their favorite pastimes was driving the side-by-side together, laughter filling the air as they created lasting memories on their adventures. In every moment, Dallas exemplified love and devotion, making it clear that family was his greatest treasure. In addition to His parents, Dallas is preceded in death by one son, Joel Anthony Whitt; one brother, Wallace Clark; and one sister, Glenda Clark Roundtree. He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Vicki Whitt Clark of Clay City; one son, Scott (Jackie) Clark of Clay City; four grandchildren: Bradley Jacob (Shaylan) Whitt, Kaycee Jo (Kyle) Gibbs, James Dallas Clark, and Jeffrey Dewayne Clark; four great-grandchildren: Carson Bradley Whitt, Lorena Faye Gibbs, Asher Joel Whitt, and Ruthie Jean Gibbs; and several nieces and nephews. Visitation will be held from 6:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M. on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at Hearne Funeral Home, 125 West College Avenue, Stanton, Kentucky. Funeral services, officiated by Bro. Kim Rose and Bro. Doug Elam will be held at the funeral home at 1:00 P.M. on Friday, July 31, 2026. Burial will be held at Vaughn's Mill Cemetery in Clay City, Kentucky, with Anthony Clark, Arnold Anderson, Alan Blanton, Eddie King, Ronnie Brown, Glenn Salyers, Steve Rogers, and Teddy Ray Lacy serving as active pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers are his co-workers at Red River Ranch and his Kentucky Dragway family. Arrangements have been entrusted to Hearne Funeral Home of Stanton.