Clyde "W.C." Earley, age 80

Clyde "W.C." Earley, age 80, of Forest City, passed away Tuesday, March 21, 2017.

Born February 2, 1937 in Rutherford County, he was a son to the late Duffie B. Earley and Elsie Shepherd Earley. Clyde served in the U.S. Army and was a veteran of the Vietnam War where he earned three bronze stars. After retiring from the military, he was a truck driver many years. He was the current Master of the Cliffside Lodge #460 and a 33^rd Degree Mason. Clyde was also a member of the Scottish Rite of Charlotte and the Oasis Shrine Club #360 and the Thermal Belt Shrine Club. Clyde was a faithful member of Grace Chapel in Forest City. Clyde lived a life of dedication in serving others.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of forty-one years, Ila Faye Bailey Earley; three sisters, Louise Beaver, Willo Dean Walker, Brenda Peppers and brother, J.D. Earley.

Those left to cherish his memory include daughter, Ashley Tomblin and husband, Chris of Clayton, NC; son, David Earley of Caroleen; three sisters, Frankie Hudson and husband, Clyde of Golden Valley, Diane Lovelace of Rutherfordton and Judy Lyda and husband, James of Hendersonville. He is also survived by two great-granddaughters, and many nephews and nieces which include Steve and Theresa Lovelace of Mooresboro.

The funeral service was conducted with Reverend Ricky Poteat officiating. Masonic Rites were delivered by the Cliffside Masonic Lodge #460 and Military Honors were rendered by the Rutherford County Honor Guard.

Memorial donations are respectively requested to the Shriner's Hospital for Children, 2900 Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, FL 33697.

Harrelson Funeral and Cremation Services has been entrusted with arrangements.