Clyde Rufus Black of Springfield, Mo. departed this life on Dec. 26, 2020 in Cox Hospital at 86 years of age.

Clyde was born to George S. Black and Gladys Inez McDaniel Black on Sept. 7, 1934 in Cloud Chief, Ok.  Clyde started to work with Western Electric Co. in Riverside, Ca. in 1956, taking time out from 1958-1960 to serve his country. He retired from what later became AT&T in 1986.        He enjoyed fishing, playing games with the family, wood working projects, watching Western movies, and watching his favorite Chiefs play – and win football!   He loved calling back and forth with the boys and his sisters after a touch down!!

Clyde was a deacon, and oldest member of Bois D'Arc Baptist church where he had attended since 1969. He loved his God and church family.        He had the same dream a few times in the last 2-3 weeks. He said, "I had an encounter with Jesus. It was in a very busy market place. Of course He was surrounded by a crowd. I was stammering and stuttering trying to come up with words that would adequately express my appreciation for all that He had done for me. Suddenly He looked straight at me with a smile like I had never seen before, and He said, "It was my pleasure, my pleasure indeed, I love you that much and it pleased the Father. I'm all about pleasing the Father!" That dream has brought much comfort to the family.

Clyde is survived by Mary, the love of his life for 60 years, daughter Gala Black of Springfield, son Perry and wife Gail of Republic, Larry and wife Marlena of Kansas City.    Grandchildren, Rachel and husband Bryce Thummel of Port Orchard, Wa., Sarah Chamberlain and fiancé Jorge Rangel of Blue Springs, Anna and husband Marcus Miller of Ozark, Victoria Black of Kansas City, Tyler Black of Republic. And 2 great granddaughters, Katelynn and Noelle Miller of Ozark, 2 sisters, Rebecca Maxwell of Riverside, Ca. and Melba Ellis of Queen Creek, Az.   And a host of nieces, nephews, and special friends.

Clyde was preceded in death by his parents, George and Inez Black.

Clyde's son Larry says that a couple of words that stands out to him about his dad are "Fixer" and "Generous." Dad was a fixer, whether plumbing, electrical, mechanical, or construction, he did most of his own home repairs, and we learned by his example. He also performed many, many repairs for friends, family, and his church in his younger years. He was an uncommonly generous man, sharing his time, talents, resources, and most importantly his faith. Countless lives have been touched by his love and generosity, and we have always been proud to call him our Dad!

Clyde's son Perry says:  Three words come to mind when I think of our dad.  Love, wisdom, and understanding.  Going to miss him being a phone call away.

Clyde's daughter Gala has these thoughts:  When I think of our dad, I think of the words unconditional and fierce.  No matter what was needed, his response was always unconditional.  Whether it be love, hugs, time, resources, fellowship, for whatever and for whomever.  Also his love for his family and friends was fierce and on display all the time.  He was not a fighter but would defend those he loved with all he had.  So truly blessed to have been the daughter of such a Godly man who lived his life as an example of Christ!

No services will be held at this time due to the Corona virus spreading so rapidly. A Memorial will be held in his honor at a later date.

On line condolences may be left at Klinger-Cope White Chapel Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, Clyde loved to donate to the Gideons and he would be honored if anyone wanted to give so that more could have the Word of God in their hands!