Clyde L. Penny

Clyde Lamar Penny

June 28, 1934 — October 3, 2025

Clyde Lamar Penny was born in Piedmont, Alabama, to Ella Belle Smith and Lon Thomas Penny. He moved to Battle Creek, Michigan, before being drafted into the United States Army, where he served honorably from 1957 to 1959.

After his service, Clyde built a lifelong career at Michigan Paper Board Company. As a millwright for more than four decades, he was the kind of man who stayed late when needed and took pride in his work. His work ethic provided stability and security for his family.

Clyde was married to Tonya (Finn) Penny from 1957 until 1984. During those years he dedicated himself to providing for and loving his family in his own way.

He was known by all for his humor. He saved his hostilities for those he loved. Clyde’s wit often surfaced in conversation — understated and dry, but sharp enough to make you smile when you least expected it. He was steady, sometimes tough, and lived life on his own terms.

Outside of work, Clyde found simple pleasures in listening to country music and driving the quiet back roads of Michigan. In his later years, he grew to enjoy Lakeview Assisted Living, particularly the interactions he had with the caregivers.

He is survived by his son, David Penny and his fiancée Kim Reagle (whose devoted care brought Clyde comfort and dignity in his final years), his daughter Starla Houff and her husband Greg; and his son Troy Penny and his fiancée Jan Cline.

Clyde is also survived by his grandchildren, Ryan Penny and his wife Kelly; Keagan O’Brien and his wife Jenny; and Alex Penny and Christina Spadaro

He is further survived by his great-grandchildren, Chanler, Lynnley, Grady, and Rylynn. Clyde was especially proud to have grandchildren carrying the Penny name and took comfort knowing the name would continue on.

A graveside service to celebrate Clyde’s life will be 1:00 p.m., Friday, October 10th, 2025 at Memorial Park Cemetery.  Memorial donations may be made to the Calhoun County Red White and Blue Foundation.  Arrangements by the Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.