Clyde Robert Ferrell
Clyde Robert Ferrell passed away on November 23, 2020 in Porterville, CA at the age of 86.
Clyde was born in Stillwater, OK on December 22, 1933. His family moved to California when he was young and they settled in Ducor, California. He attended elementary school in Ducor and graduated from Porterville High School in 1952. While in high school he was Vice President of the Student Body, and played football and boxed, receiving numerous medals. He later went on to Fresno State where he received a secondary teaching credential.
After high school Clyde married Donna Holbrook. They were married for 20 years and had four children: Gregg, Chris, Lisa and Brenda.
Clyde had a diverse career beginning with teaching at various elementary schools in the area. He then went on to operate Clyde Ferrell Realty on South Main. In the 1970s he was a Porterville City Councilman. He and his son Gregg owned and operated G&G Guns in Porterville. They operated the gun shop for many years and it became a popular gathering place for gun enthusiasts. He also remained faithful to his alma mater and was instrumental in continuing the tradition of the PHS Class of ’52 reunions. The class of ’52 last had their 65th reunion.
Clyde taught real estate at Porterville College where he met Eleanor Drum, an Administrator at the college. They married in 1977 and were married for 42 years. After Eleanor retired, they enjoyed traveling around the country, playing bridge, and spending time with family.
Clyde was a fierce person in everything he did, including loving and helping people. He was our family’s rock whom we could always depend on. He was always there; steadfast and strong. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and one of his favorite pastimes in his later years was spending time at his Crescent City home and fishing on the Klamath River. He was passionate about collecting guns, but most of all he was passionate about his many grandkids. Education was of utmost importance to him, and he and Eleanor graciously provided the opportunity for all of their grandchildren to pursue higher education. Clyde’s legacy will be carried on by his grandchildren by encouraging and supporting their children’s education and pursuing their dreams.
Clyde is survived by his wife of 42 years, Eleanor; his brother William (Pat) Wise, Tommy Dean (Butch) Ferrell, his children Chris (Pam) Ferrell and Lisa (James) Norris, stepson David (Mary Ann) Drum, stepson Ronald Drum, stepdaughter Cheryl Quandt; grandchildren Sara (Brian) O’bruba, Kate (Nate) Smith, Jessica Rush, Hannah (Randy) Steen, Carly (Jon) Lepp, Emily (Vincent) Catalina, Colin Ferrell, Morgan Ferrell, Selena Lessley, Kayla (Kevin) Trueblood, Matt (Emily) Drum, Shanelle (Alex) Karpenko, John (Michelle) Quandt, Faith (Garrett) Doss, Carl Quandt, 17 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews in OK. He is predeceased by his father Thomas Ferrell, mother Ruth Ferrell, his brothers Raymond Wise, Walter Ferrell, sisters Mary Donna Rogers and Patsy, his son Gregg Ferrell, his daughter Brenda Ferrell and his grandson Dane Cooksey.
Although it will be so hard to live without him, there’s peace in knowing he’ll be reunited with Gregg, Brenda and Dane. We picture him with a smile on his face and that familiar chuckle. There will be a celebration of life at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you send contributions to Clyde Ferrell Scholarship, Porterville High School, Attn: Mrs. Zamora, ASB, 465 W Olive, Porterville, CA 93257. Make checks payable to PHS and make a note on check for Clyde Ferrell Scholarship.