Michael Clippard

Michael "Mike" Mullen Clippard was born Oct. 20, 1946, at Southeast Hospital in Cape Girardeau and departed this life Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2020, at Missouri Baptist Medical Center in St. Louis from complications of COVID-19.

He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Gail Clippard; two sons Dr. Michael (Cathy) Clippard and Brandon Clippard; two grandchildren, Anna Clippard and William Clippard; brother, James (Faye) Clippard; and special friends, Brian, Mandy, Emma and Addie Crow.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Wallis and Hazel Clippard; and his brother, Joseph Clippard.

Mike graduated from Ouachita University in 1968 with a bachelor of music education and furthered his music education at Arkansas State University by obtaining a masters of music education degree. He started his teaching career in Clarendon, Arkansas, where he led the high school band program for three years. He then moved to Dexter, Missouri, to teach high school music at his alma mater. He was initially assistant band director under life-time music mentor and friend Howard Jones. "Mr. C," as he was commonly referred to by his students. Mike retired after 31 years of teaching music education and leading the high school band program at Dexter High School.

Mike enjoyed many different hobbies including camping, hunting, fishing and water skiing. During his retirement years, he became a skilled woodcarver. He enjoyed Native American folklore and was a proud member of the Crowley Ridge Black Powder Club. Mike and Gail enjoyed many trips to Branson, Missouri. He also enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, Anna and William. Mike never met a stranger and was a friend to everyone. He was a longstanding member of First Baptist Church in Dexter, where he served as a Sunday School teacher and deacon.

Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to noon Friday at First Baptist Church in Dexter. Funeral service will then be conducted at noon, with the Rev. Don Kennedy officiating. Graveside service and Interment will follow in the Dexter Cemetery with the Rev. Mark Smith officiating.

The Clippard family respectfully requests that everyone practice social distancing and wear a mask during the visitation and funeral services.

Memorials may be made to the Dexter Public School Foundation, c/o Mike Clippard/Dexter High School Band Program, 1031 Brown Pilot Lane, Dexter MO 63841.

Mathis Funeral Home in Dexter is in charge of arrangements.