Ohio Valley Opry Founders: The Marvin and Deana Clark Family
The Ohio Valley Opry was founded by Marvin and Deana Clark, whose vision was to create a place where families and communities could come together through the joy of live music. What began more than two decades ago as a family-led effort has grown into a regional tradition, celebrating faith, family, and entertainment that spans generations.
A Family Devoted to Music
From the earliest days, the Opry has been a family endeavor. Marvin and Deana’s children have played an essential role in shaping the Opry’s growth and carrying forward its mission. Their children include David, Leah, Tai, Jada, and Ellie, who have each contributed their time, talents, and dedication to building and sustaining the Opry’s success. Although Leah passed away in June of 2018, her love of music and her family remain a lasting part of the Opry’s heart and legacy.
The Clark family story is enriched by their extended family as well, including sons-in-law Swanagan Ray and Mike Riley, whose support and contributions have been deeply valued through the years.
The Next Generation
Marvin and Deana’s grandchildren—Chloe, Zooey, Milena, Saige, Eli, Bennett, Cohen, and Finnegan—represent the future of the Clark family, and in a roundabout way, the future of the Ohio Valley Opry itself. While some are already finding their voices on stage and others are still too young to fully step into the spotlight, all of them are showing a love for music and the potential to carry the Opry tradition forward. Their involvement is a reminder that the Opry has always been more than just a stage-it is a family legacy built to last for generations.
Our Extended Family: The Siglers The Opry’s story cannot be told without the Sigler family. Gary and Stephanie Sigler, along with their children and grandchildren, have been like family to the Clarks. For decades, they have been a vital part of the Ohio Valley Opry, contributing their talents, energy, and dedication both on stage and behind the scenes. Their partnership and friendship have been integral to the Opry’s success through the years, and their presence continues to be one of the greatest blessings in the Opry family. The Colemans Matt Coleman serves as the Opry’s emcee, bringing warmth, humor, and professionalism to every show. His devoted wife, Michelle, has been a steady support to him and to the Opry family, helping to ensure that the show runs smoothly and always feels like home. The Ruggles Andrew Ruggles is a talented guitarist in our staff band, adding skill and heart to the Opry sound. His wife, Jessica, blesses the entire Opry family with her hospitality and her wonderful home-baked goodies, keeping everyone encouraged and cared for behind the scenes. Dave Morrison A dedicated member of the staff band, Dave Morrison brings the rich sound of the steel guitar to life at every performance. His sweet spirit and exceptional playing add depth and beauty to the Opry’s music, making him an irreplaceable part of the team.
A Tradition That Endures
The Ohio Valley Opry remains a reflection of the Clark family’s vision and values. What began with Marvin and Deana has grown through the contributions of their children, the memory of their beloved Leah, the dedication of their extended family, and the enthusiasm of their grandchildren. Together with the Siglers, this family legacy continues to inspire audiences and keep the music alive for years to come.
A Founders’ Note
“We are thankful that God has blessed us with the opportunity to do what we love: share music, faith, and family with our community. The Ohio Valley Opry has always been more than just a show to us...it’s a way to bring people together and create memories that last a lifetime. We are grateful for our children, our grandchildren, our extended Opry family, and for every friend and fan who has supported us on this journey. It is our honor to share the Opry with you.”— Marvin and Deana Clark
A Family Devoted to Music
From the earliest days, the Opry has been a family endeavor. Marvin and Deana’s children have played an essential role in shaping the Opry’s growth and carrying forward its mission. Their children include David, Leah, Tai, Jada, and Ellie, who have each contributed their time, talents, and dedication to building and sustaining the Opry’s success. Although Leah passed away in June of 2018, her love of music and her family remain a lasting part of the Opry’s heart and legacy.
The Clark family story is enriched by their extended family as well, including sons-in-law Swanagan Ray and Mike Riley, whose support and contributions have been deeply valued through the years.
The Next Generation
Marvin and Deana’s grandchildren—Chloe, Zooey, Milena, Saige, Eli, Bennett, Cohen, and Finnegan—represent the future of the Clark family, and in a roundabout way, the future of the Ohio Valley Opry itself. While some are already finding their voices on stage and others are still too young to fully step into the spotlight, all of them are showing a love for music and the potential to carry the Opry tradition forward. Their involvement is a reminder that the Opry has always been more than just a stage-it is a family legacy built to last for generations.
Our Extended Family: The Siglers The Opry’s story cannot be told without the Sigler family. Gary and Stephanie Sigler, along with their children and grandchildren, have been like family to the Clarks. For decades, they have been a vital part of the Ohio Valley Opry, contributing their talents, energy, and dedication both on stage and behind the scenes. Their partnership and friendship have been integral to the Opry’s success through the years, and their presence continues to be one of the greatest blessings in the Opry family. The Colemans Matt Coleman serves as the Opry’s emcee, bringing warmth, humor, and professionalism to every show. His devoted wife, Michelle, has been a steady support to him and to the Opry family, helping to ensure that the show runs smoothly and always feels like home. The Ruggles Andrew Ruggles is a talented guitarist in our staff band, adding skill and heart to the Opry sound. His wife, Jessica, blesses the entire Opry family with her hospitality and her wonderful home-baked goodies, keeping everyone encouraged and cared for behind the scenes. Dave Morrison A dedicated member of the staff band, Dave Morrison brings the rich sound of the steel guitar to life at every performance. His sweet spirit and exceptional playing add depth and beauty to the Opry’s music, making him an irreplaceable part of the team.
A Tradition That Endures
The Ohio Valley Opry remains a reflection of the Clark family’s vision and values. What began with Marvin and Deana has grown through the contributions of their children, the memory of their beloved Leah, the dedication of their extended family, and the enthusiasm of their grandchildren. Together with the Siglers, this family legacy continues to inspire audiences and keep the music alive for years to come.
A Founders’ Note
“We are thankful that God has blessed us with the opportunity to do what we love: share music, faith, and family with our community. The Ohio Valley Opry has always been more than just a show to us...it’s a way to bring people together and create memories that last a lifetime. We are grateful for our children, our grandchildren, our extended Opry family, and for every friend and fan who has supported us on this journey. It is our honor to share the Opry with you.”— Marvin and Deana Clark