Joseph "Jody" Herman Clarkson, 75, of Valley Lee, MD, passed away on Sunday, September 23, 2012 at St. Mary's Hospital in Leonardtown, MD. Jody was born on July 5, 1937 in New York to the late Clifford Anthony Clarkson and Eleanor Rosemary (Easton) Clarkson.

Jody served in the US Army and was honorably discharged. He lived in St. Mary's County for over 40 years, coming here from Washington, DC. He enjoyed his work as a Vet Tech and retired from the National Zoo in Washington, DC and from St. Mary's Animal Hospital.

He married his wife Nona Lorene on May 10, 1990. Together they enjoyed many camping trips over the years. Jody also enjoyed hunting and fishing and held a passion for animals. He was a member of the Elks Lodge.

Jody is survived by his wife Nona Lorene Clarkson of Valley Lee, MD; children Clifford Anthony of Texas; Frank Joseph Clarkson; Victoria Clarkson of Upper Marlboro, MD; Robin Darlene Little (William) of Lexington Park, Md; Gerald Dean Skalby of Canada; Daniel Keith Skalby (Joann) of Lusby, MD; Roy Neil Hines of Lexington Park, MD; Teresa Mae Pace of Huntingtown, MD; and Peggy Ann Hines of Texas; brother Larry Clarkson of Virginia, 18 Grandchildren and 10 Great Grandchildren.

Graveside services will be held on Thursday, September 27, 2012, at 2:00 p.m. in Charles Memorial Gardens, Leonardtown, MD.

In Lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Valley Lee Second District Volunteer Fire Department.

Arrangements by the Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A., Leonardtown, MD.