Harold Bradley Clapp

Memorial services for Judge Harold Bradley Clapp, 89, Tyler, are scheduled for 2 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2009, in the sanctuary of Marvin United Methodist Church. Arrangements under direction of Lloyd James Funeral Home, Tyler.

Harold Bradley Clapp -- beloved husband, father and grandfather, dedicated family law judge, devoted juvenile advocate and cherished friend -- passed away peacefully Jan. 31, 2009, surrounded by his loving family. They imagine that Saint Peter told him, "Every time you think about it, hurry up a little," and ushered Haroldaddy into heaven.

He was born Dec. 15, 1919, in a sod house in Baca County, Colo., to pioneering parents, Earl and Maude Clapp.

Known by all for his love of life and sense of humor, he was always glad to see family and friends. They could expect to hear him say, "Child, tell me something good," or "How's your coperocity sagatiating?" Surely, today, Judge Clapp is enjoying his new audience as he shares one of the ten jokes he told hundreds of times while on Earth. Or, perhaps he is reciting the beloved Robert Service poems he learned as a young man.

Among his many interests, he loved gardening and his beautiful yard was a showcase for the neighborhood. Judge Clapp, an avid car trader, continually surprised his family with new vehicles, which often reflected his one-of-a-kind personality. He enjoyed carpentry, hunting, fishing and horseback riding, and saw these hobbies as opportunities to share time and new experiences with his family. Many precious memories were created from these family activities.

One of his great joys was traveling with his beloved wife, Ann, both around the United States and around the world. He appreciated the beauty of God's world and the diversity of its cultures.

Throughout his long life, Judge Clapp's wisdom and humor impacted countless people in positive ways. His remarkable legacy will continue to inspire those who loved him.

Survivors include his wife of 66 years, Ann-Marie Richbourg Clapp; children: Michael Clapp of Shelburne, Vt., and his wife Alison, Patsy Schalles of Houston and her husband George, Matt Clapp of Red Springs and his wife Janie, Pam Evans of The Woodlands and her husband Will, and Brad Ranlett of Whittier, Calif., and his wife Martha; Michael's children: David Clapp and Amy Fallis and her husband Michael; Patsy's children: Carrie Pillsbury and her husband Mark, Claire Caton, and Sarah Wynne and her husband David; Matt's children: Travis Clapp and Katherine Crow and her husband Nathan; Pam's children: William Evans and Ann-Marie Schaefer and her husband David; and great-grandchildren, Eliza, Iyler, Hampton, Anna Cate and Ross.

The family offers sincere thanks to dear friends and colleagues for their kindness and support. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the Rockin' C Ranch Christian Camp, Marvin United Methodist Church.