Retired Major Solomon “Sol” Cottle Clark, 89, of Oceanport, passed away peacefully Jan. 28, 2026, at Monmouth Medical Center in Long Branch.
Sol was born Dec. 14, 1936, in Tifton, Georgia. After several decades of military service, he ultimately settled in Oceanport. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, decorated Vietnam War veteran, skilled woodworker, classic car restoration fanatic, and community politician.
Sol was known to many for his quick wit, steadfast determination, unwavering patriotism, dexterous skill and characteristic baritone voice.
Sol served in the United States Army for more than 27 years. He completed one tour in Korea, two tours in Vietnam as a Huey pilot, and two tours in Germany. He graduated from the Army Command and Staff College in 1979 and retired as a major from the Army Signal Corps in 1981.
His service was recognized with numerous decorations, including the Distinguished Flying Cross (with 10 Oak Leaf Clusters), the Bronze Star Medal (with 20 Oak Leaf Clusters), the Air Medal (with 24 Awards), and the Army Commendation Medal with “V” Device, along with Unit Honors, including the President Unit Citation and Valorous Unit Award, among others. Citations note heroism during aerial flight in connection with military operations against a hostile force.
After his military retirement, Sol continued serving his community. He was elected to the Oceanport Borough Council in 1991 and served as Scoutmaster of Troop 58 in Oceanport, where two of his sons earned the rank of Eagle Scout.
Sol was a craftsman. He had a passion for woodworking and made countless toys and keepsakes for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He also enjoyed cars, fishing with his sons, old-time country music, old Westerns and the harmonica. He took great pride in his garden and in being someone others could count on.
Sol was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Evelyn, and three brothers, Everett, Sanders and William. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Joyce, whom he met at Gibbs Hall on Fort Monmouth; his five children, Carla, Lisa, Brian, Bill and Brad; his 10 grandchildren, Jessica, John, Samantha, Reilly, Kinley, Harrison, Francis, Catalina, Josephine and Priscilla; five great-grandchildren, Shyanne, Carter, Kaleb, Willow and Sutton; and his brother, Wendell.
In accordance with his wishes, interment will take place at Arlington National Cemetery.
The article originally appeared in the February 19 – 25, 2026 print edition of The Two River Times.
