Clarence C. Townsend, age 72, of Springfield, was welcomed home to heaven, by his parents and Jesus on Monday, September 19, 2011. He was born January 21, 1939 in Lane Oklahoma, the sixth of eleven children of Argene and Ruby Juanita (Cason) Townsend. He served his country in the Army National Guard. He attended Okmulgee State Technical College and Electronics School in St. Louis. He retired as an accountant for O’Reilly Automotive. In 1955 Clarence was involved in an accident putting him in a wheelchair for the rest of his life, however his spirit for life endured. He wholeheartedly believed that everyone should live and enjoy life to the fullest. This is reflected in the legacy he has left behind for his family and friends. Clarence enjoyed basketball, tennis, chess club, traveling, and above all his family and friends. He was patient and kind, a rock to his family, and will be remembered and missed by each one. He was a member of Riverdale Baptist Church. Survivors include: Two sisters, Carolyn Sipes and husband Darryl, Billings, and Jimmie Lou Townsend, Springfield; a brother, Clinton Edge and wife Mae, Austin, Texas; three nieces Clarence loved as his own daughters, Ruby, Lisa and Amber; many other loving nieces and nephews, a host of other relatives and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, five sisters, Mary Jo, Maureen, Juanita, Evelyn, and Helen, and two brothers, Ralph and Edmond. A memorial service will be 2:00 PM Friday, September 23, at Riverdale Baptist Church with Pastor Jamie Bilyeu officiating. Burial will be in Glenn Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Adams Funeral Home, Nixa.
Clarence is featured throughout the website and was a driving force for the success of the Springfield Park Board Chess Club for many years. He served as treasurer for endless years and made the Chess Club ladder a major success for the club by calling every member every week for years which made members want to participate. Clarence was also known as a "giant killer" with his many victories over much higher rated opponents throughout the years. The above obit was sadly received by the club and is posted here in memoriam.
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