Clyde Shoemaker

Clyde Shoemaker, 86, of Robeline, LA passed from this life on Saturday, December 19, 2020 at University Medical of New Orleans. Clyde was born to Luther and Lizzie Carnline Shoemaker on February 4, 1934 in the Shamrock Community of Robeline, LA. He was the eldest of seven children. Clyde was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Charles Raymond Shoemaker and Bobby Ray Shoemaker; one sister, Carolyn Shoemaker Ensinger; and one nephew, Shad Taylor. He is survived by two brothers, Clifford Shoemaker of Robeline, LA, and Kenneth Shoemaker and wife Sarah of Natchitoches, LA; one sister, Ruthie Shoemaker Taylor of Robeline, LA; one aunt, Ellen Lewis of Carencro, LA; four nieces, Mindy Taylor and Christy Taylor of Robeline, LA, Brandy Ensinger of Natchitoches, LA, and Erica Scott and husband Jason of Bossier City, LA; one nephew Kevin Ensinger and Tracye Dye of Natchitoches, LA; one great niece, Kristina Scott; and his special BFF Ashley Jennings Hane. Clyde was a very special person. Galatians 5:22-23 says, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance…” Those spiritual fruits were vividly displayed in Clyde’s life. Clyde was a man of strong faith who loved his family, friends, and church. Clyde simply loved. Above all he loved his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Clyde was a man of prayer. He faithfully attended and served Hickory Grove CM Church. He was an usher for many years, participated in Christmas and Easter dramas, and helped in whatever building, construction, or cleanup work was needed as long as his health permitted. Clyde was a people person who enjoyed spending time reminiscing with family and friends about his childhood, the many years he worked in logging, gardening, and his favorite pastime – hunting. He had favorite stories that he would tell over and over again to anyone who would take time to stop and pay attention. Clyde loved attention! Birthday parties, family reunions, church fellowship, family gatherings, or any kind of get together was a treat for Clyde. And he loved a good conversation. Yes, he was deaf and mute in this life, but Clyde carried on his conversations with his hands, his expressions, and his whole being. He didn’t need a voice. His smile spoke volumes. When he was nine years old Clyde went to work with his Dad and cut timber with a cross-cut saw. That began a career in the logging industry that spanned several decades. Clyde was a hard worker who became known for his unparalleled skill in sharpening chainsaws. Even after his retirement people would bring saws for Clyde to sharpen. Clyde was a hard worker on the job and at home. He would spend hours every spring and summer preparing, planting, and harvesting a beautiful garden. Even this year he rode his little red scooter through the rows with his hoe. Whether the garden, the deer stand, the porch, the yard, the clover patch looking for four-leafed clovers, or just a walk in the woods when he was physically able, Clyde wanted to be outdoors. He would sit on the porch watching for deer, watching the birds, whittling, or looking at hunting magazines or his picture Bible. A simple man who was satisfied with simple things – PB&J sandwiches, a cup of coffee, a good conversation – Clyde had a tremendous impact on many lives. He was always referred to as being “so sweet.” (He was also a little spoiled!) The family would like to thank all those who have extended their love, prayers and support during this difficult time. The memories shared and kind words spoken have overwhelmed us as we see so many hearts and lives touched by this gentle man who was so dearly loved. A home going celebration will be held on Wednesday, December 23, 2020 at 10:00 AM at Hickory Grove Congregational Methodist Church in Robeline, LA with the Reverends Brian Foster Jennings, Donnie Paul Lewing, and Elton Hodge officiating. The family will receive friends from 5:00 PM until 9:00 PM on Tuesday, December 22nd and from 9:00 AM until service time on Wednesday at Hickory Grove CM Church. Interment will follow at Lambert Town Cemetery in Shamrock. Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Derek Campbell, Albert Wayne Carnline, Toby Carnline, Kevin Ensinger, Kerry Rawls, and B.J. Shoemaker. Honorary pallbearers are Jerry Carnline, Marvin Davis, A.J. O’Con, Noah Palmer, and Thelton Wall.