Clinton Jiles Gorman

clinton gorman

November 15, 1923 ~ November 14, 2021

Born in: Washington, DC
Resided in: Asheville, NC

Clint J. Gorman, 98 of Asheville died just before dawn November 14, 2021 at his residence, one day shy of his 98th birthday. One of the few remaining members of the “Greatest Generation”, he was born on November 15, 1923 in Washington D.C. He attempted to enlist in the Army at 15 and upon reaching legal age became part of the 8th Air Force during World War II. Clint served as a top-turret gunner on a B-17 based at the AAF Base at Thurleigh, England. He earned several medals including the Air Medal with 3 Oak Leaf Clusters and 4 Bronze Battle Stars. After the war he enjoyed a 32 year career with Southern Bell, stationed in Miami, FL and Asheville, NC where he spent the rest of his long life.

Clint was an avid musician, enjoying singing Barber Shop Quartet in the Land of the Sky Chorus chapter of SPEBSQSA, could play any song by ear on the piano or guitar and loved the music of the 40’s. More recently he enjoyed the music from his sons and grandsons. He was a founder of the Southern Appalachian Radio Museum located at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College. Up until his final days he still enjoyed “tinkering” with old radios in the garage, working to restore them back to working condition. More times than not they would be brought back to life. In the late 1960’s Clint served the NC Wing of the Civil Air Patrol as a licensed pilot and of course, maintained the two-way radio equipment.

He was preceded in death by his parents Albert and Ada, Brothers Donald, Bill, and Bud, sisters Alice and Evelyn, sons Richard and Gary, great granddaughters Laikyn and Harper and former wife Jackie. He is survived by his wife Phyllis, sister Connie, son Clint (Tammy), grandsons Ben (Jessica), Joey (Celesta), Matt and great grandsons Brodie and Oliver and special friend Dorothy “Dotty” Stroupe.

“Pop” was a stoic man, and his love and pride for his family ran deep. He enjoyed consistently keeping up with all members of his family, sending pictures and enjoying the company of his friends. He always had a smile on his face accompanied by laughter. Being one of the last representations from the WWII era, he represented them well with a strong persona and charismatic features. He will be deeply missed by many.

In lieu of flowers the family request considering a donation to the Southern Appalachian Radio Museum located at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, 340 Victoria Road, Asheville, NC 28801.

A private family service with Military Honors will be held at the WNC State Veterans Cemetery.

Groce Funeral Home on Tunnel Road is assisting the family.

K4KRB – signing off.

Rest Easy, Pop.

Services

Funeral Home Assisting The Family:

Groce Funeral Home on Tunnel Road
856 Tunnel Rd.
Asheville, NC 28805

(828)299-4416
http://www.grocefuneralhome.com

Air Force Veteran

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  1. Sorry for your loss Clint, Tammy, and family. Just know you guys are in our prayers. I will never forget what you done for my dad.

  2. Clint, I am so sorry for your loss. He sounded like a wonderful man and live a long and wonderful life. I know he will be missed.

  3. The man we are cherishing & honoring, Clint, leaves behind quite a legacy, one that is evidenced by his love for Phyllis, his amazing grandsons, and the guardian angels that are Clint & Tammy, who have helped Shawn and I navigate life for the past 10 years.
    Rest in love & peace, Clint.

  4. Dear Clint, I am so sorry for your loss. Looking at the picture of your father, I can see you in his features. Know that I am sending you and Tammy hugs and prayers during this difficult time. Let me know how I can help in the coming weeks and months.

  5. Although we only met Clint recently, we marveled at his alertness and found his experiences in life as a veteran and later to be amazing. May his family find comfort in the Lord as they grieve knowing that one day God has promised to wipe away all tears. Love & Prayers

  6. I’m so sorry for your loss. He sounded like a wonderful person that lived life to it’s fullest. I thank him for his service. I’m sure he will be missed.

  7. So very sorry to hear of your father’s passing. Please know my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

  8. Clint and family, such a wonderful life your father presented to all he knew. I see where your own smile comes from in his photo. Such a loss in a family becomes so bittersweet with all the memories he represents in his long years.
    I hold you, your family, and all friends in your Father’s life in healing love, thoughts and prayers for peace.

  9. Clint,
    Know you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. It appears the apple hasn’t fallen far from the tree. You are I am sure the man your father had hoped for you to be. Stand proud, hold on to the love and memories that have been gifted to you by such a loving, talented and thoughtful man.

  10. I’m so sorry for your loss. Fathers are so precious whom will never be forgotten and always treasured. God Bless such a special man.

  11. Clint, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Your father sounds like a wonderful man who made the world a better place. I’m so sorry for your loss.

  12. I am so sorry for your loss. I am Phyllis’ great granddaughter in Florida and my family and I have so much love for your father. I am sending all my love to you and your family. He will be deeply missed.

  13. Although I didn’t know Clint very well he was a supporter of the Asheville Radio Museum. The last time I saw Clint was during a filming of the museum. I thank Clint for being a founding member of the Asheville Radio Museum. …-.- .-. ….- .-. .-. -… .-. . .–.

  14. Dear Clint,
    So sorry for your loss. Your father sounds like his son. A very special man. I pray the peace that passes all understanding be with you and your family. God bless.

    Becky

  15. Dear Clint, so sorry for your loss. Your dad sounds like his son. A very special man. I pray the peace that passes all understanding be with you and your family. God Bless

  16. Dear Clint, I am so sorry for your loss. Your dad sounds like a very special man like his son. I pray the peace the
    passes all understanding be with you and your family. God Bless

  17. So sorry, Clint. Worked with him and he enjoyed a good long life with a loving family. My deepest sympathies to you and your family. .

  18. Clint – You wrote an amazing tribute to your “Pop”! He was loved by so many and will be missed beyond measure!! You and Tammy will forever be in my prayers! Thanks so very much for your love and the care the both of you have displayed over the years. God’s Blessings, Connie

  19. Clint, So sorry for your loss. I have and will be praying for you, Tammy and the family. God’s comfort to each of you.
    John

  20. Dear Clint and family, Many years ago when we moved to Asheville your Mom and Dad were so helpful to Jack and I. Have great memories of our times together, the telephone company brought us together. Praying for you and your family during this time of loss. Jan Whiteman

  21. Hi Clint
    Your dad was my supervisor for a short time at Southern bell. Had not heard from him in many years. I went to Charlotte to work than to Hendersonville and back to Asheville. He retired and went west for a time and I lost track of him. I remember you and him trying to teach me how to make music with a wash tub, broom handle, and a string. He was a good person and I am sure he will be missed.

    Our Prayers are with you,

    Floyd Layman

  22. Clint, Tammy and family,
    Jeff and I were saddened to hear of the passing of Papa Clint. We are praying for comfort and peace for you all. He had a great smile and was a joy to talk to. Mom enjoyed being with him and Phyllis.
    With love,
    Jeff and Niecy

  23. Uncle Clint, I’m sad to hear of my grandfather’s passing. I wish i had known him; he sounds like a wonderful man. My dad (your brother Richard) sure looked a lot like him and had a lovely singing voice too! Praying the good Lord sends some ministering angels to comfort you. Sincerely, Jacqueline

  24. To Clint, who has passed. I met you through my father, John H. Travis (W4QCF-silent key). I see you as bright, intelligent and fully knowing of people. I will visit you at the WNC State Veteran’s Cemetery. And yes, make a donation to SARM. Hey! I always liked your mustache :).


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