Gerald Lee Clapp

Gerald Lee Clapp
'Jerry'
GREENSBORO -- Mr. Clapp, 79, passed away on Monday, February 23, 2009, at Friends Home West in Greensboro. Private interment will be followed by a memorial service at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, February 27 at West Market Street United Methodist Church, 302 West Market Street, Greensboro, with Reverend Bill Ellison officiating. The family will receive friends immediately following the service at the church.
Jerry was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, but moved to Greensboro as a young child. He graduated from Greensboro Senior High and later from Guilford College, where his football teammates gave him his nickname, 'the bull.' His college career was temporarily interrupted by a stint in the army during the Korean War. Upon his return, he married his high school sweetheart, Nancy, and they began their life journey together. They cherished the years spent raising their two children and loved being involved in their lives and activities. Some of Jerry's fondest memories are of family picnics following rounds of golf with his 'gangsome' at Carlson Farms Country Club.
Once the children were grown, they moved to Charlotte, North Carolina, where Jerry was General Manager and ultimately owner of Tar Heel Ford/Mitsubishi Truck Sales. While in Charlotte they formed many new relationships that remained with them for life through the dealership, various social and business organizations, industry functions and trips, and Myers Park United Methodist Church. Jerry especially valued his relationships with his wonderful employees at Tar Heel. Upon retirement, after twenty years in Charlotte, they moved back home to Greensboro.
Although Jerry was a successful businessman who was known and well-respected throughout the transportation industry, he will be remembered most for his friendly personality. His open, welcoming manner and playful sense of humor have won him friends throughout his life. The twinkle in his eye, his booming laugh, and his mischievous grin will remain with his family and friends forever.
Jerry was preceded in death by the love of his life, Nancy, his devoted wife of 55 years who passed away last year, as well as his parents Frederick and Beatrice Clapp, stepmother Anne Clapp, and brother, Fred Clapp.
He leaves behind his daughter, Candy Clapp Randall of Rock Hill, South Carolina, and his son, D. Mark Clapp and wife, Marilyn of Charlotte. Also surviving is brother Joe Clapp and his wife Helen of Akron, Ohio. He was the proud grandfather of Kelly and Christina, who will dearly miss their PawPaw.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the West Market Street United Methodist Church, PO Box 870, Greensboro, NC 27402, or to a charity of your choice.