Clyde Eugene Kelley, 79, of Clearwater, Florida, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 4, 2026. He was born on October 30, 1946, in Winsted, Connecticut, the son of the late Graham and Kathleen “Kitty” (Dautrich) Kelley.

After growing up in Connecticut, Clyde moved to Clearwater, Florida, where he raised his young family. He worked for many years as an auto body painter and repair technician at several car dealerships before eventually owning his own business. During his time in Clearwater, Clyde formed many lifelong friendships and, together with a group of close friends, co-owned the Cypress Pub in downtown Clearwater.

After his daughters were grown, Clyde returned to Winsted, Connecticut, to be closer to extended family and some of his childhood friends. Known as the “Class Clown” at Northwestern Regional High School, he never lost his sense of humor and was always ready with a joke or a story. He fondly reminisced about time spent at West Hill Lake, his work at Pratt & Whitney, and helping his father at a local car dealership in Winsted. Clyde had a deep love for cars, auto racing, riding his motorcycle, watching Court TV and American Pickers, and enjoying a good cheeseburger—but above all, he cherished his family and friends.

He is survived by his daughters, Teresa Daiker (husband, Duane) and Cheryl Sanz. He was predeceased by his daughter, Dora Saunders (husband, Robert). He is also survived by his four beloved grandchildren, Robert “RJ” Saunders, Justin Saunders, Kelley Hoffman (husband, Kevin), and Megan Rudd (husband, Devin), and one great-granddaughter, Jade Saunders.

Clyde grew up in a close-knit family with two brothers and two sisters. He is survived by his brother, Peter Kelley, and his sister, Karen Stockwell (husband, Dana). He was predeceased by his sister, Virginia Sejdak, and his brother, James Kelley (wife, Linda). He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

A burial service will be held on May 30, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Forest View Cemetery on Rowley Street in Winsted, Connecticut, where Clyde will be laid to rest with his parents.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Suncoast Hospice in Pinellas County, Florida.

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