Clarence Robinson St. John Sr. was born on March 10, 1929, the third and youngest child of the late Rev. Thomas Heatly and Margaret Wilson, who passed away when Clarence was just five years old. Separated from his siblings during childhood, he chose to change his name when he turned 21.

In 1951, Clarence married Betty Jean Miller, and together they had five children: Roderick Darryl, Margaret Kay, Clarence Jr., Elizabeth Ann, and Rhonda Denise. Some years later, after divorcing Betty, he married Inez Veronica and helped raise her two daughters, Averill and Char. Following his service in the U.S. Army, Clarence worked for the United States Postal Service in New York.

He faithfully served on the Vestry of Grace Episcopal Church in Queens for several decades. He also held managerial roles within the Department of Health and was an entrepreneur, co-owning Catawba Cleaning Services with his son, Clarence Jr. A highly skilled craftsman with a strong background in architecture, Clarence created fine woodwork and, later in life, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering. When looking over family photos, it was apparent he was the man behind the camera.

He was preceded in death by both of his wives, Betty and Inez; his daughters, Margaret Kay and Elizabeth Ann; his grandson, Clarence Robinson III; and his step-grandson, Kenneth Clayton Jr. He is survived by his son, Clarence Jr. (Linda Wigfall); his daughter, Rhonda Glaze (Richard); stepchildren Roderick, Averill, and Char; many grandchildren—Roderick Jr., Tiffany, Corey, Margaret Tracey, Alex, Jaliessa, Kevin, and Richard—as well as great-grandchildren and extended family.