Clarence Edward Jelley, 89, a longtime resident of Neosho, entered into rest on June 28, 2023 at Mercy Hospital in Joplin.  Clarence was born on July 23, 1933, the son of Mr. Jelley and Mrs. (maiden name) Jelley.  He was born in Illinois where he graduated high school.  After high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, where he served his country in the Vietnam War as a medic retiring after 20 years.  Upon retirement from the U.S. Army, Clarence would begin a career in wastewater treatment.  He earned his degree in Wastewater Treatment from Crowder College and went on to work for the City of Tulsa retiring in 1992.  Clarence and Helen Whithorn were united in marriage on July 1, 1957, she preceded him in death on July 19, 2020.

In his spare time, Clarence enjoyed his daily breakfast and coffee at Hardee's in Neosho.  He also enjoyed spending time with his family, he loved telling military stories, enjoyed fishing, and the St. Louis Cardinals baseball.

Clarence is survived by one daughter, Sharon Otten, of Neosho;  Four grandchildren;  Jimmy Otten, and his wife Becca, of Kansas City, Becky Whetzell, and her husband, John, of Neosho, Missy Williams, and her husband, Dan, of Neosho, and Tiffany Wright, of Neosho.  Nine great-grandchildren; Ethan, Elijah, Ezekiel, Christian, Reagan, Brooklyn, Logan, Trinity, and Andre.  In addition to his wife, he preceded in death by one daughter, Diana Payton.

A graveside service is scheduled for Saturday, July 1, 2023, at 1:30 P.M. at the Neosho Memorial Park Cemetery.  Doug Gripka will officiate.  Full military honors will be presented.  In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to the American Legion in c/o of Clark Funeral Home, P.O. Box 66, Neosho, MO, 64850.