Wanda Clark, who served as Lucille Ball’s personal secretary and confidante for more than 25 years — from 1963 until Ball’s passing in 1989 — died Sunday at the age of 87. Her death marks the end of a remarkable era for those who cherished I Love Lucy and the lasting legacy of one of television’s most beloved stars.
Before her long tenure with Ball, Clark worked for LOOK magazine, where she met Cleo Smith — Lucille Ball’s cousin. That friendship would change her life forever. When Ball was looking for a secretary, Smith recommended Clark, who soon became much more than an assistant. Over the next two and a half decades, Clark managed Ball’s schedule, correspondence, and professional commitments, while also becoming a trusted friend who witnessed the comedian’s humor, grace, and resilience behind the scenes.
Clark was deeply connected to Ball’s family, particularly her daughter, Lucie Arnaz. In a heartfelt Facebook tribute, Arnaz shared that Clark began working for Ball when she was just 11 years old. Clark later served as the Matron of Honor at Arnaz’s first wedding and even traveled across the world to watch her perform. “Wanda cared deeply about preserving my parents’ legacy — serving as a founding board member of the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum,” Arnaz wrote. “Jamestown meant so much to her, and she loved returning for the annual comedy festival, where she shared stories, reconnected with old friends, and brought her unique perspective to those who gathered there.”
Born on March 19, 1938, in Vandervoort, Arkansas, Clark spent much of her childhood in Oklahoma, later graduating from U.S. Grant High School in 1956. After Ball’s death, Clark continued her career with distinction, working for several notable figures including philanthropist Barbara Davis, actress Victoria Principal, The Young and the Restless star Melody Thomas Scott, talent agent Roger Vorce, and producer Ray Stark.
Yet, it was her enduring connection to Lucille Ball’s memory that remained her life’s passion. For over 30 years, Clark was a familiar and beloved presence at the annual Lucille Ball Comedy Festival in Jamestown, New York — the legendary comedian’s hometown. Her final appearance came in 2024, where she participated in a special discussion with Lucille Ball historian and author Ric Wyman, sharing behind-the-scenes anecdotes and rare photographs that offered audiences a glimpse into the woman behind the comedy icon.
Journey Gunderson, executive director of the National Comedy Center and the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum, remembered Clark as a vital link to comedy history. “Wanda was an extraordinary connection to the history we celebrate every day,” Gunderson said. “Her firsthand perspective and generosity in sharing memories helped visitors feel closer to the legacy we preserve. Her deep affection for Jamestown reminded us that comedy’s impact — and Lucy and Desi’s enduring story — is, at its heart, about people and connection. We were honored every time she joined us — most recently in 2024 — as those visits were always a very special highlight of the festival. She will be dearly missed.”
Wanda Clark’s legacy endures not only through her years of service to Lucille Ball but also through her dedication to keeping the laughter alive for generations who never knew Ball personally. To fans and historians alike, she was a guardian of television history — someone who made sure that the story of Lucy and Desi remained vivid, human, and full of heart.
