Clem was born in Johnson City, Tennessee, and lived there for a majority of his life.
After earning a BS in history at East Tennessee State University, Clem began his career in the pharmaceutical sales industry until 1978. He transitioned to a successful career as an investment broker, where he served his clients for 34 years. Clem retired from Citizens Investment Services in 2019.
While Clem was successful in his career, his passion was as a servant leader. Clem was a member of the Mountain States Health Alliance Board of Directors and served in various leadership roles there, including a term as Chairperson. He also served as a member of the Ties for the Blind Foundation, Johnson City Parks & Recreation advisory board, ETSUâs Buccaneer Athletic Scholarship Association and the Johnson City Lionâs Club. He was also a lifelong member of St. Johnâs Episcopal Church, serving as lay Eucharistic minister, senior and junior warden of the vestry. He still found time to volunteer as a reader at South Side Elementary School.