Clarence Gilyard, Sr., 93, lifelong resident of San Mateo, entered the sunset of life on Saturday, October 19, 2019 at his daughter, Vosie's residence in Palm Coast surrounded by his family. A native and lifelong resident of San Mateo, he was the son of Aaron and Isabel (Mitchell) Gilyard, born on Sunday, July 4, 1926. Clarence was educated in the Putnam County School District and a 1944 graduate of Central Academy High School. He was united in Holy Matrimony to Melvise Patricia Holsey Gilyard on March 7, 1945 in Palatka. PFC Gilyard was inducted into the U. S. Army on March 12, 1945, serving in the 6975th Infantry Regiment, Company A. He earned the World War II Victory medal and the Occupation Medal before his honorable discharge on October 15, 1946. He was a longtime member of New Bethel A.M.E., San Mateo and subsequently united with Mt. Tabor First Baptist Church, Palatka. He was a retired truck driver at Florida Packing & Provision Co., and a farm labor contractor for numerous years, traveling each summer to Virginia, Delaware and New York. He enjoyed riding around San Mateo and visiting his friends and family.

In addition to his parents, Clarence was preceded in eternal rest by his wife of 58 years, Melvise Gilyard; sister, Odessa Mack; brothers, Henry Gilyard, Wilmer Gilyard, Sr., Damon Gilyard.

He leaves to cherish his memories: daughters, Clarissa Williams, Deanna Brown, both of Palatka; Aronell (Donald) Williams, McAllen, TX; Evelyn (Elisha) Miller, East Palatka; Loretta Smith, Hastings; Rachel (Calvin) Maxwell and Annette (Willard Eugene, Sr.) Smith, both of San Mateo; Vosie (Amos) Miller, Palm Coast; sons, Clarence Gilyard, Jr., Killeen, TX; Willie B. "Bernard" (Cathy) Gilyard, both of East Palatka; Jenifer (Carolyn) Gilyard, San Mateo; Jethro (Josephine) Gilyard, Palatka; sister, Lillian Curry Lee; sister-in-law, Dr. Lilla G. Holsey, both of San Mateo; 39 grandchildren, 67 great-grandchildren, 26 great great-grandchildren, godson, James Jackson; countless nieces and nephews, especially devoted nieces, Sandra Gilyard and Regina Gilyard-Thomas; and a host of other caring relatives and friends.

Visitation of family and friends will be 5-7 p.m., Friday, October 25, at Flagg's Chapel of Serenity. Homegoing Celebration with U.S. Army military honors at 12 noon, Saturday, October 26, at Mt. Tabor First Baptist Church, 4909 St. Johns Avenue, Palatka, Rev. Karl N. Flagg, Pastor and Eulogist. Interment: Oak Hill West Cemetery, Palatka.