Clarence Albert Hittell Jr.

Clarence A. Hittell Jr., born February 15, 1939, passed away Friday, July 17, 2026. “Buddy” or “Bud”, as he was known by family and friends, got his nickname from his father, who on the day he was born said, “Now I have me a fishing buddy.”

Bud grew up in Jacksonville and graduated from Robert E. Lee High School (now Riverside High). It was there that he met and fell in love with Helen “Gene” Thomas. The high school sweethearts married in August of 1958, embarking on a journey that would bring them four beloved sons: James, Jerry, Derrick, and Bruce.

Shortly after his marriage, Bud answered the call of duty and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, beginning a distinguished military career that spanned several decades. Bud served his country with immense pride, achieving the rank of Master Gunnery Sergeant. His service took him to numerous stations overseas and across the United States. Notably, Bud served two tours of duty during the Vietnam War. It was during this conflict that he was wounded in action, a tragic experience that earned him the Purple Heart. Among his military assignments, one of his favorites was his early career appointment as a Drill Instructor at Parris Island, South Carolina, where he helped shape the next generation of Marines with discipline and dedication.

Bud also loved sports. He was an avid softball player, having played on the Marine Corps softball team while stationed in California. During that time, he and his family traveled around the state for tournaments and playoffs, which Bud attributed to his fine pitching skills. He also found time to relax and play golf, as time allowed.

Following his retirement from the Marine Corps, Bud transitioned to civilian service, joining the United States Postal Service, where he dedicated another 17 years of hard work before retiring fully.

In 1982, several years after his marriage to Gene ended, Bud married Joyce Hipps. Together, they shared approximately 20 years of marriage, building a life centered around family and friends.

In his retirement, Bud settled into a golf course community, granting him daily access to his favorite sanctuary: the greens. Whenever you stopped by to visit Bud, you were almost guaranteed to find him with a club in hand, enjoying the fresh air. He spent countless hours playing golf with his son Bruce and his brother Ralph.

In his later years, as his physical strength and mobility began to weaken, Bud’s resilience remained strong, always happy to cut up and share a laugh. This period of his life was made infinitely brighter by the extraordinary devotion of his brother, Ralph. Ralph was a pillar of strength, providing tremendous help, support, and companionship to Bud when he needed it most. Their bond was a beautiful testament to brotherly love, ensuring Bud could continue to enjoy his family and his beloved golf outings for as long as possible.

Bud was a proud father of four, a grandfather of eight, and a great-grandfather of twelve. His family was his greatest achievement and his ultimate joy.

He is survived by his loving sons, James (Jim), Derrick (and his wife, Barbara), and Bruce; his devoted brothers, Wayne and Ralph; and his loving sister, Joy.

Bud was preceded in death by his son, Jerry Michael; his first wife, Gene; and his second wife, Joyce.

A Graveside Service will be held at Hardage-Giddens, Riverside Memorial Park & Funeral Home, 7242 Normandy Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32205, US, on July 28, 2026, from 11:00 am to 11:30 am.