The Benedictine College community extend condolences to the loved ones of our alumnus, Col. Clem Courtney (Ret.) '70. You are all in our prayers.

I wrote a letter for my dad that was read at the service in Florida. 

Dear Daddy,

You've always been my hero. I have always admired your strength and can't even remember one time that i've heard you complain. It's amazing to me how much you have done with your life and i will always strive to live my life like you lived yours. I've been only thinking about the good memories because i know thats what you would do. But it's easy to just think of good, because there really aren't any bad. I will never forget our weekend trips to the zoo, walking on the nature trail, you helping me with math homework, or even our many trips to Publix. Most of all, I will never forget your sense of humor. We had the best jokes that most people wouldn't understand. I will always love the relationship we have. I had hoped you would be with me through most of my life experiences, but i have realized that even though you will not be with me physically, you will always have a front row seat from a better place. There will never be a day that i won't miss you, and i'll make sure you will always be a proud father. I love you with all of my heart.

Gayle

Cathy, To you and your dear daughter, my thoughts and caring are with you. Getting to know you and be a friend is an honor. Love to you...  Jan Wright

Cathy, I just learned the upsetting and sad news of Clem's death.  How deeply I feel for you in your loss.  Please accept my sincere condolences.  Joyce Milford

COLONEL Courtney filled the breach when I lost my Dad in 1998. I will always remember him as COLONEL Courtney and a most honorable man... LTC Ricardo Arispe

Colonel Clem Courtney ... a great soldier, a trusted comrade, and a true and loyal friend. I always held him in my highest regard. Colonel Gaither Bray (Retired)

Goodness--I miss you so much!!  Before I even became an "official member" of the Courtney family, Dad accepted me as his daughter.  I had the privilege of meeting my future father-in-law at a Courtney family reunion the summer of 1978, prior to marrying Clif, Son #2.  I was able to know Dad when he was a Colonel in the Army and when he retired and so excited about the arrival of his first and only granddaughter, Cali Joy.  He took off 6 months to enjoy his family before starting his second career.  When I told my in-laws about the imminent arrival of their second grandchild, Dad would beam that beautiful smile of his and tell anyone that would listen that his grandson was arriving in June!  Of course, I couldn't disappoint him...his first and only grandson, Sean Patrick, arrived in June.  Dad, being from an extremely large family-12 brothers & sisters-was all about family.  He was always so proud of his children and especially loved his "girly girl", Gayle.  He loved to take walks with Gayle, take her to her karate classes, cook for her BBQ/pool party birthdays, and just spend quality time with his wife, Cathy, and his daughter, Gayle.  I know if he had his choice instead of the Good Lord, he would have lived to be 100 (or at least 99 like his father did) so he could walk Gayle down the aisle and play with her children when she presented him with grandchildren.  He will always be with all of us.  We all miss you so much!  Love you!  Your Mississippi Daughter, Karen

When I was six years old, he was in the 12th Grade, and told me that all I had to do was study hard and I would be as smart as he was.  He also told me that he was there if I needed him.  And, when I was 10, he taught me how to roll rabbit tobacco cigarettes from paper bags and smoke them.  He made slingshots and taught me how to use them the way our "Indian Grandfathers" did.  I wasn't as good with his homemade bow and arrows, but that was ok, because "You're still young!".  His first letter to me after he entered the Army contained instructions for what he expected from me because I carried his name.  He never neglected to remind me that I was named for him and he wanted me to be the best at whatever I did. I followed his instructions because I loved him very much.  Uncle Mutt...I hope I did you proud!!  Glenda

Dear Catherine, Gayle and family,

For some moments in life there are no words.  ~David Seltzer, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory

Please know that during this difficult time we are thinking of you.

Catherine, if you need anything, please do not hesitate to call.

Much Love, 
Bernadette, Rick and London

OBITUARY

Clem Courtney

April 1, 1932 – January 27, 2011

Beaches Chapel by Hardage-Giddens

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