Clyde Wendell Elliott, age 87, passed away peacefully in his home on December 31, 2025, surrounded by the love of his devoted son, wife, and daughter in law.

Clyde was a man of rare character—forged with a "tough as nails" exterior but defined by a heart of pure gold. A skilled welder by trade and passion, he knew how to build things that lasted, a trait he carried into his personal life. While he was known for his strength, those who knew him best knew his immense compassion and the depth of his kindness.

Above all else, Clyde's world revolved around his family. He shared 65 years of marriage with his wife, Florence, a bond built on unwavering loyalty. He was a hero to his son, Leo, who was not only his child but his very best friend. The two were inseparable, and their morning breakfast dates were the highlight of Clyde's days—simple moments filled with the kind of love and friendship most people spend a lifetime searching for.

As "Papaw," he was the cornerstone for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, always offering a steady hand and a giant heart. Whether he was talking about welding or just enjoying the presence of his grandbabies, Clyde lived a life of purpose. His family feels profoundly blessed to have walked through life with him. He was a faithful member to his church, Island Home Baptist Church, where he will be deeply missed. He was saved at Island Home Baptist Church at age 14.

Clyde is preceded in death by his father and mother, George Elliott, and Edith Troutman Elliott, as well as brother George Elliott Jr, sister-in-law, Ima Jean Elliott and Nephew, Jim Elliott.

His legacy of strength and love continues through his wife, Florence Elliott; his son and daughter-in-law, Leo and Maria Elliott; his sister, Helen Osbourne; and his grandchildren and their spouses, Robert and Chelsey Farmer, Dustyn and Whitney Copeland, and Travis and Bekah Elliott. He was the proud "Papaw" to his great-grandchildren: Zyon, Charlie, Emmaus, Atlea, Aubree, and Brynn, and he was eagerly looking forward to the arrival of his newest great-grandson, Rhett Farmer.

Also survived by sisters-in-law, Joyce Williams and Judy Bass; brother-in-law, Mark Ridenour; nieces and nephews, Deborah Harris, Bobby Elliott, Clyde Elliott, Benny Ray Elliott, Tammy Crass, and a slew of great nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers: Travis Elliott, Zyon Copeland, Dustyn Copeland, Robert Farmer, Benny Ray Elliott, and Jerry Hurst

Honorary Pallbearers: Glen Ridenour, Bobby Elliott, and Clyde Elliott.

The family will receive friends from 5:00-7:00 pm, Monday, January 5, 2026, at Holley Gamble Funeral Home.  His funeral service will follow in the chapel with Rev. Dustyn Copeland and Rev. Rocky Hamby officiating.  Friends and family will meet at Holley Gamble Funeral Home at 1:00 pm, Tuesday, January 6, 2026, and then proceed to Red Hill Baptist Church Cemetery for a 2:00 pm graveside service.

Holley Gamble Funeral Home is proud to be serving the Elliott family. Holleygamble.com