Clyde P. Ward—a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, Marine, Mason, and friend. While our hearts are heavy with grief, they are also filled with gratitude for the many years we were blessed to share with him and for the memories that will remain with us forever.

Clyde was born in the rolling hills of Eastern Kentucky in the small town of Van Lear, a place that helped shape the values he carried throughout his life. He was proud of his roots and embodied the strength, resilience, and kindness that are so often found in the people of Appalachia.

As a young man, Clyde answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Marine Corps. During his service, he was stationed in Okinawa, Japan. The discipline, honor, and commitment he learned as a Marine remained with him throughout his life. Once a Marine, always a Marine—a title he carried with great pride.

Clyde lived life with enthusiasm and appreciated the simple pleasures. He found joy in tending his garden, casting a fishing line into the water, spending time on the golf course, making his famous moonshine, and taking pride in his beloved old car. He was also an exceptional cook who loved preparing Southern meals and barbecue, bringing family and friends together around the table where stories and laughter were always plentiful.

If there is one thing many of us will remember most, it is Clyde's gift for storytelling. He had a way of making every tale come alive, whether it was funny, heartfelt, or filled with lessons learned over a lifetime. He truly never met a stranger. His warm smile, easy conversation, and welcoming spirit made everyone feel like an old friend. Whether you knew him for five minutes or fifty years, you left feeling like you belonged.

Clyde was also a proud Mason, valuing the principles of integrity, service, and brotherhood. Those who knew him understood that his character was defined by loyalty, generosity, and a willingness to help others whenever he could.

Above all else, Clyde loved his family. He shared a loving life with his devoted wife, Kathern, whose love and companionship were among his greatest blessings. He leaves behind his daughters, Teresa Ward (Gary Ward) and Phyllis Scripsick (Joseph Scripsick), who will forever cherish his guidance, love, and unwavering support. He was a proud grandfather to Jacob and Sierra, whose lives were made richer by his wisdom, humor, and unconditional love. He also held a special place in his heart for Gabe McKenzie, the son he never had but loved as his own.

Clyde was preceded in death by his father, John V. Ward; his mother, Ruby Ward Daniels; and his brothers, Blue and Glenn Ward. He is survived by his siblings, Marie (Bonnie Guzman-Ward) and Gary, along with many extended family members, friends, and all those whose lives were touched by his kindness.

Although we mourn the loss of Clyde's physical presence, we celebrate a life that was fully lived. His legacy is found in the stories we will continue to tell, the meals we will share, the gardens we will plant, the laughter we will remember, and the love he poured into his family and friends.

As we say goodbye today, let us remember Clyde not only for what he accomplished but for who he was—a man of honor, warmth, humor, and generosity. His life reminds us to welcome others with open arms, cherish our loved ones, and find joy in life's simple moments.

Rest easy, Marine. Your watch is over. Your work here is done. We will miss you deeply, love you always, and carry your memory in our hearts for the rest of our lives.

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