Earl Clewis

He was born on April 28, 1946 to the late SW and Juanita Clewis of Oak Island. He was preceded in death by his devoted wife of 57 years, Barbara Clewis, and his brother, Don Clewis. He is survived by two children, Amy VanDyne, and Michael “Rock” Clewis (Beth); three grandchildren, Caison (Caleb) Clemmons, Carly Clewis, and Wyatt Clewis; one great-grandchild, Carter Clemmons; and dedicated friend, Danny Sellers.

He was a 1964 graduate of Southport High School where he was a member of the Dolphins’ 8-man football team that won the 1964 NCHSAA state championship. In 1967, he established Woodside RV Park in Southport, with his wife, and continued to operate it until his death. He retired from the I.L.A. after 30 years of working on the docks.

His favorite activities were hunting and fishing. He was one of the local pioneers of king mackerel fishing. As captain of the “Live Wire” with his dedicated fishing partner, Stanley Rehder, he was known as a top contender in king mackerel tournaments up and down the east coast during the 80’s and 90’s.

He was best known by those who knew him for being the most hardworking man at anything and everything he did. This was true up until the day he died, as he continued working until then.

The service will be held at 3:00 pm on Wednesday, July 15, 2026 at Trinity United Methodist Church in Southport. The family will have visitation from 2:00 to 3:00 pm prior to the service at the church.

The family would like to offer our gratitude and appreciation to all of the friends and members of the community who have shown up at the right time, came out when asked, helped, got help, came to the rescue, picked him up, came and got him, bailed him out, and came to the rescue and saved him over and over again — thank you for being there when we couldn’t. Also special thanks to all the members of Woodside RV Park, past and present. You were thought of like family and he enjoyed many years of visits and fellowship from cookouts to fishing trips.

A special thanks to Southport Fire and EMS, Brunswick County EMS, the Southport Police Department, and Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office for all of their assistance over the years and excellent service. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to one of the local departments.

Online condolences may be made at www.peacocknewnamwhite.com

Peacock - Newnam & White Funeral and Cremation Service, Southport, North Carolina.