Clyde LuRoy Gatewood, 97, of Coffeyville passed away Sunday, July 9, 2023, at Saint Simeon's Senior Community in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
He was born on December 28, 1925, in Coffeyville, Kansas to Gilbert LuRoy and Goldie May (Ochenbein) Gatewood. Clyde grew up and attended school in Coffeyville graduating from Field Kindley Memorial High School.
Clyde was a veteran of World War II serving in the U.S. Navy from March 1944 until receiving his honorable discharge in May 1946. He reenlisted in the U.S. Navy serving during the Korean War from April 1951 until August 1952.
His journey in life was remarkable, filled with love, dedication, and thoughtfulness, which touched many lives around him. He was the embodiment of humility, always putting others before himself. Known for his loving heart and thoughtful nature, Clyde's life was a testament to the power of kindness.
On December 28, 1948, Clyde married the love of his life, Lorene E. Davis at her parents' home in Coffeyville. Following their marriage they called Coffeyville home where they raised their daughters Arma and Carla. Lorene preceded him in death on August 30, 2020.
Clyde was a man of many talents and passions. In his youth, he worked at Hall's Sport Shop and sold real estate before embarking on a rewarding banking career at 1st National Bank in Coffeyville and later at Coffeyville State Bank until his retirement. However, his dedication didn't let him rest for long. After seven years of retirement, he returned to work at Wal-Mart, where he joyfully served the community for over two decades, greeting customers, stocking shelves, and doing whatever was necessary with a smile. Clyde's love for his job and colleagues was palpable, making his presence unforgettable. He was a passionate antique collector and enjoyed taking care of his booth at the antique mall. One of his favorite pastimes was coaching youth softball. Clyde found joy in the simplest things, like watching the birds in his yard, a testament to his humble and appreciative nature.
Despite his various professional and personal ventures, Clyde's heart always belonged to his family. He was a loving father to his daughter, Arma Gatewood, and a proud grandfather to Natalie Donaldson. He was also blessed with a great-grandson, Gabriel Sumner. Clyde also leaves behind his sister, Joyce Ford. Clyde was preceded in death by his parents, Gilbert and Goldie Gatewood, his wife, Lorene Gatewood, his daughter, Carla Almond, and his siblings, Maynard Gatewood, Myrl Camp, Frances Robinson, Ethel Ross, and Ina Hardesty.
A Memorial Service with military honors conducted by Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #1022 and American Legion Post #20 will be at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, July 22, 2023, at the Veterans Patio in Fairview Cemetery. Inurnment will follow in Restlawn Memorial Park. A celebration of life will follow at the VFW.
Friends may sign the register book on Friday, July 21st from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the David W. Barnes Funeral Home in Coffeyville.
Plants are welcomed, but you could also consider giving a donation to a charity of your choice or toward the funeral expenses.
Clyde Gatewood's life was a beautiful journey, filled with love, dedication, and humbleness. His legacy will always be remembered in the hearts of those he touched. We invite you to share your memories and upload photos of Clyde on his memorial page at www.dwbfh.com
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David W. Barnes Funeral Home of Coffeyville is in charge of arrangements.
