Clyde Cecil Hobbs, 88, a former softball player of Mt. Vernon, Indiana, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 7, 2025.
Born on July 24, 1937, in Anniston, Alabama, he was the eldest of three boys born to Clyde Norman and Annie Cecil (Day) Hobbs.
Throughout his life, Clyde embodied the values of hard work, dedication, humor, and love, leaving behind a legacy cherished by family, friends, and the community he served.
A Talented Athlete And A Family Man
Clyde’s love for sports began early and remained a defining part of his life.
An avid basketball and softball player, he was known for his exceptional pitching skills, earning him induction into Alabama’s Softball Hall of Fame in 2012.
In 1955, Clyde married the love of his life, Rosa Ann Owen. Together, they built a home filled with warmth, laughter, and four children.
Clyde’s professional journey took him to General Electric, where he spent more than 30 years in human relations, managing facilities across the country.
His leadership, fairness, and dedication to people eventually led him to serve as the head of HR for the company’s plastics division.
This position brought the family to Mt. Vernon, Indiana, where they would lay down lasting roots.
Outside of work, Clyde was a man who believed in giving back.
He was an active member of the First United Methodist Church, a familiar face at Western Hills Country Club, and most recently, president of the Solarbron Residents’ Association.
Whether leading a meeting or sharing a laugh with neighbors, Clyde’s larger-than-life personality made him a natural connector of people.
A Big Heart And A Sense Of Humor
Clyde’s humor and joy for life were unmistakable.
He loved good music, a clever joke, and the company of those he loved most.
Despite his many successes, he often joked about one humorous “failure,” never managing to convince any of his six granddaughters to name a doll after him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife Rosa after more than 50 years of marriage, and his firstborn daughter, Dani Marie.
Moreover, he leaves behind daughters Dianne Keck and Katherine “Kathy” (Henry) Bockelman; son Clyde “Steve” (Sandy) Hobbs.
A Celebration of Clyde’s Life will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at First United Methodist Church.
Visitation will be held at the church from 9:00 a.m. until the start of the service, and a private burial will follow at a later date.
