of Alexander, AR
March 9, 1942 - December 7, 2025
Clyde A. Ketcham, 83, passed away peacefully on December 7, 2025, surrounded by his loving family, following a five-year battle with cancer.
A proud American and devoted patriot, Clyde served his country with distinction as a member of the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War. As a B-52 tail gunner throughout the campaign, he embodied courage, vigilance, and dedication to his fellow aircrew and his nation. For his valor and service, Clyde was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross along with multiple Air Medals, a testament to his bravery and devotion in combat. His service was a cornerstone of his life, and he carried the values of honor, sacrifice, and resilience with him in all that he did.
Following his military service, Clyde entered the trucking industry, where his tireless work ethic and determination provided for his family and helped build a life rooted in integrity and perseverance. Together with his beloved wife, Julie (Woodard), he raised five children in Arkansas, instilling in them his love of family, faith, and country. That legacy of service and patriotism continued, as all of his sons went on to serve honorably in the United States military.
Clyde is survived by his devoted wife of 60 years, Julie (Woodard); his five children, Bill, Scott, Roseann, Jeff, and John; nineteen grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; his sister, Annloise Vidas; and his brothers, John and Andrew. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Muriel.
He will be remembered as a loving husband, a proud father, and a guiding presence to his family, who will carry forward his legacy of strength, perseverance, and service.
A visitation to honor Clyde's life will be held on Friday, December 12th, at 9 a.m. at the Roller-Chenal Funeral Home in West Little Rock, followed by a graveside service and interment at 11:00 a.m. at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery in North Little Rock.
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14 Condolence(s)
Richard Britton
Friday, December 12, 2025
Great friend and family man l can say that my life is better for having known him and his family.
Ron & Carolyn Bartlett
Thursday, December 11, 2025
Clyde was my gunner and we flew nearly 100 combat missions together in B-52s. Teaming with him was a pleasure and his endless stories always entertained our entire crew.
He was a SAC professional aviator who knew his stuff. What I remember most about him was his love for Julie and his intense pride in all his children. He leaves a legacy of patriotism and dedication to our country.
An old saying: "When an old man dies, a library burns!'' But in Clyde's case his many friends and family know his stories and he will live on in their memories forever.
Landon and Laney Moore
Wednesday, December 10, 2025
We loved Mr. Clyde. He was always there for us, telling us stories and making us laugh. He was a great neighbor and like another grandparent to us and our kids. We will forever be grateful to be able to call him a friend. We will be praying for Mrs. Julie and the entire Ketchum family.
Robert Johnson
Wednesday, December 10, 2025
Kathy and I pray that God will comfort you all as you grieve Clyde's passing. He was always full of life and a positive person to be around.
Cindy Mote McGhee
Tuesday, December 9, 2025
Im so sorry for your loss. Prayers for you all during this time of grief.
Carla & Ron Tunnell
Tuesday, December 9, 2025
Sending our love & sympathy to Julie & Her family. May our Lord comfort all of you during this time.
Trena Lunsford
Tuesday, December 9, 2025
I am so sorry for your loss. I pray that God will give you peace and comfort.
Marcus Bielau
Tuesday, December 9, 2025
A life well lived that created a lasting legacy.
Mike Perry
Tuesday, December 9, 2025
He was a wonderful man, a great aviator and the best friend anyone could ever have.
He taught me many things, but the love he showed will be with me forever.
Rest in peace, my friend. I'll see you on the other side!
Gail Tezel
Tuesday, December 9, 2025
So very sorry for your loss! He truly was a great man & will be missed lots!
He & Julie have raised wonderful children. My Friends for many years.
Prayers for all of his family!
Kay Bohn
Tuesday, December 9, 2025
Sorry for your loss Julie and the whole family. I will be praying for you that Jesus the Lord may bring you some comfort.
Kimberly Ann Aden
Tuesday, December 9, 2025
It was wonderful to know Mr. Ketcham. Praying for his family.
Kim Aden, RN
Hospice Home Care
Suzie Upton Talley
Tuesday, December 9, 2025
My deepest condolences to your family for such a great loss. Mr. Clyde was a great man and father. May the Lord comfort your broken hearts at this difficult time. May you rest in the comfort he is alive with the Lord and will see him again.
Scott & Casey Ketcham
Tuesday, December 9, 2025
You will be missed. We are grateful for the wonderful memories we have of Clyde (Dad).