Clyde J. "Hoover" Conner, 93

Clyde J. "Hoover" Conner, 93, of Marion, (former long-time resident of Rutherfordton), passed away Wednesday, November 6, 2019.

Hoover was born on January 12, 1926, in Gilkey, to Jack Lorenzo Conner and Renner Robertson Conner. He was the owner of Conner Lumber Company, Ruth, NC, later worked as the recreational director of the Spindale House, and served for 25 years as a deputy and crime prevention officer (Community Watch Program) with the Rutherford County Sheriff's Department. He was a candidate for Sheriff of Rutherford County in 1978 and 1982. Hoover was preceded in death by his wife, Collene Heffner Conner, and two daughters, Brenda Carol Conner and Charlotte Ann Conner Lattimore.

He is survived by his daughter Janet Lynn Conner, of Rutherfordton, and former son-in-law, Larry V. Lattimore, of Rutherfordton. In addition, he is survived by four grandchildren, as well as eight great-grandchildren, one great-great grandchild, and a number of nieces and nephews.

Hoover was well-known throughout Rutherford County and the surrounding area as a civic leader. He was named the Rutherfordton Lions Club "Lion of the Year" in 1962, and served as president of that organization from 1966-1968. He was president of the Ruth Elementary School P.T.A. from 1962-1964, chairman of the Rutherford County March of Dimes Committee in 1970, member of the Rutherfordton-Spindale Jaycees, and the Spindale Men's Club. For 30 years he served as a coach for the Rutherfordton Little League, and the Rutherfordton-Spindale Baseball All-Stars. He was a member of Southern Baptist Church, Ruth, NC.

A private family funeral is planned. Memorials may be made to the Rutherford Historical Society, P.O. Box 1044, Rutherfordton, NC, 28139.

McMahan's Funeral Home & Cremation Services is serving the family.