Clyde Franklin Costner

Clyde Franklin Costner, Sr., born on February 9, 1943, in Gaston County, passed away peacefully at his residence on June 13, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. His departure has left a profound absence in the hearts of all who knew him.

Clyde was a dedicated truck driver, having spent many years with Carolina Freight in Cherryville and later worked for USF Holland before his retirement. Continuing his commitment to hard work, he later contributed his efforts to beyond his professional endeavors, Clyde renowned for his exceptional pea farming, proudly earning the title of "Best in Town."

A proud veteran, he served honorably in the U.S. Army, exemplifying the values of service and dedication throughout his life. Clyde's interests included fishing, hunting, racing and of course farming—activities that brought him immense joy and fulfillment. Clyde was known affectionately as "Uncle Bum" and was a beloved figure in his community. He was a fun-loving husband, father, pawpaw, and friend, always radiating warmth and kindness to those around him. He cherished spending time with his children and grandchildren, adoring each moment shared with his family and proudly watching them grow. His family was undoubtedly Clyde's proudest accomplishment. He was a member of Hardin Community Baptist Church, where his spirit of love and fellowship extended beyond his immediate family to all congregants.

Clyde leaves behind his beloved wife of over 61 years, Joyce Reep Costner; their wonderful children, Tammy Smith (Phillip), Randy Costner (Wendy), and Clyde "Frankie" Costner, Jr. (Robin); and his grandchildren, Ethan Smith (Jess), Caleb Costner (Mikayla), Seth Costner, Hunter Costner, Harli Araya (Andreas), and Donna Cress (Adam). Additionally, he is survived by his great-grandchildren, Oaklynn, Blakelynn, Ben, Kinsley, Laney, Sawyer, Lucas, Liam, Eli, Marley, and Charles. Clyde is also survived by his sister, Lois Ingle (Herman), along with his sisters Sarah Bundy, Geraldine Moose, and Pat Rankin.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Reid Milton Costner and Ruth Bumgardner Costner, as well as siblings Robert, Roger, Faye, Jay Costner, and Marge Blatteau.

Clyde Franklin Costner's memory will live on in the hearts of family and friends, who will remember him for his unwavering love, his hearty laughter, and his cherished presence in their lives.

Visitation services will be held on June 19, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Hardin Community Baptist Church, located at 548 Hardin Road, Dallas, NC 28034, followed by a Celebration of Life from at 2:00 PM, Thursday, June 19th at Hardin Community Baptist with Pastor Justin Driver and Pastor Fain Farmer officiating. Burial will follow at Hardin Community Cemetery with military honors by the U.S. Army and Gaston County Honor Guard.

Pallbearers will be Ethan Smith, Seth Costner, Caleb Costner, Hunter Costner, Steven Martin and Dustin Martin

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hardin Community Baptist Church, 548 Hardin Road, Dallas, NC 28034

Condolences may be made to www.withersandwhisenantfuneral.com

 Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 2916 Union Road, Gastonia (704) 864-5144 is serving the Family.