Charleston Gazette, October 28, 2007

OBITUARIES

Clyde Woodrow Willard

Clyde Woodrow Willard, 83, of Nitro passed away peacefully Tuesday, October 23, 2007, at Hubbard Hospice House after a brief illness.

Clyde was born September 15, 1924 in Nitro.

He was an avid WVU fan, a noted historian on all types of Nitro sports, active in the Nitro Senior Citizens group and the local community. He published the book “Nitro Sports - Moments to Remember,” a compilation of Nitro sports activities from 1920 to 1973. After graduating from Nitro High School in 1943, Clyde was a member of the United States Army where he served in World War II Germany.

He was a long time member of St. Paul's United Methodist Church, sang tenor in the church choir and was a member of several area gospel quartets, singing throughout the state of West Virginia over the past 50 years.

Clyde was retired from Monsanto Chemical Company where he worked in the storeroom and as an operator.

Many people will know Clyde as “Coach.” He served as assistant coach for secondary school sports and local Little League football, baseball and basketball teams.

Clyde was predeceased by his father, Hughey, and mother, Naomi Riddle Willard; nine brothers, Wayland, Stanley, Paul, James, Rodney, Raymond “Rim”, Daniel “Sod”, twin brother Curtis and Hugh “Popeye”; sister, Marguerite; and son David Lee Willard.

He is survived by son, Clyde “Butch” Willard and wife, Terry; daughter, Elizabeth “Libby” Willard; two grandsons, Andrew and Daniel; granddaughters, Leah and Julie; former wife, Phyllis; and many nephews, nieces and lifelong friends.

He was a beloved member of the community and will be missed by all.

A celebration of his life will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, October 28, at St. Paul's United Methodist Church, 20th Street, Nitro, with the Rev. Mark E. Smith, Pastor, officiating. Burial will follow in Tyler Mountain Memory Gardens, Cross Lanes.

Friends may call from 4 to7 p.m. Saturday at Cooke Funeral Home, 2002 20th St., Nitro.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to Nitro Senior Center, P.O. Box 444, Nitro, WV 25143, or the WVU Foundation, Morgantown.

Cooke Funeral Home & Crematorium, Nitro, is in charge of arrangements.

Condolences may be sent to the family via www.cookefuneralhome.com.