Clyde S. Champion

Clyde Sherrell Champion, a beloved father, brother, uncle, and cousin, passed away on Thursday, August 10, 2017, at the age of 80. He was born in Chilton County, Alabama, and left us to be with the Lord and a host of family. In his immediate family, Clyde is survived by his children and sister. His son, Scott Douglas Champion (wife Judy, daughter Stephanie Rose-Sale, grandchildren RaeAnn & Cody Scott), daughter, Mary Helen Champion Hepner (husband USCG Chief Warrant Officer William J Hepner), and sister Dr. Nancy Champion Cartwright (husband Darrell Wayne). Scott, Mary and Nancy all live in the Spokane, WA area where Clyde moved with family as a pre-teen. Nancy and Clyde shared the same birthday, March 9. Although they were 10 years apart, they shared a special bond. Clyde's other two siblings, his brothers, Army Colonel Alfred Newman Champion and Navy Chief Petty Officer James Albert Champion passed away several years ago. His nine nieces and nephews all have special "Uncle Clyde" stories as well as unusual nick-names for some. Clyde returned to Florida in order to be close to his Alabama family. He especially cherished his time with his late cousin "Toby"~Ronald Cleckler. Toby and Plike, as they called each other, unleashed untold shenanigans, still famous in family lore. Toby's wife, Sandy, tried her best to keep them out of big trouble. She still supports our family in such special ways. Clyde was a retired Navy Senior Chief Petty Officer and proudly served as an Air Traffic Controller. Even after retirement Clyde stayed in touch with Chief Champ's "Navy boys", who cherished his mentoring and friendship. Clyde proudly served as a member of the Free Mason, Shriners, Fleet Reserve Association (USN), American Legion, Eagles, Elks and Moose. Clyde lived independently in his own Pensacola home. His constant companions were his two rescue puppies Bubba and Bucky. They were with him to the end. Fair winds and following seas, we will all miss you. In lieu of flowers please make donations to any of the following organizations listed above. Following the service please join us at Sandy Cleckler’s home for a celebration of Clyde’s life.

Tributes

Clyde S. Champion

March 9, 1937 - August 10, 2017