William "Clyde" Cookson, age 88, passed away Monday, January 16, 2023 surrounded by loved ones. Clyde was born March 15, 1934 in Bolivar, Alabama, the son of John Frank and Alta Carrie (Ball) Cookson. He married Esther Stringer on May 14, 1983 in Big Rapids, Michigan. Clyde was a loving husband to his beautiful wife Esther; this year would have been their 40th wedding anniversary. Clyde was a deeply devoted father, stepfather, grandfather, great grandfather and great great-grandfather. He was known as a hardworking man, he retired from General Motors after 30 years of service. Clyde was an avid outdoorsman, he thoroughly loved being outside, however, his passion was fishing. He was fond of hunting but truth be told he enjoyed the company at camp even more. Clyde was thrilled with long leisurely drives and traveling. He could be found reading his western stories, often taking adventures of his own by always being on the hunt for a good garage sale! He would often reminisce, with his children and grandchildren, about his childhood growing up alongside his siblings and parents. He loved to sing and dance with his children as they aged, a few of his favorite songs to sing to the children were "Swing Low Sweet Chariot," "I saw the Light," "The Freckle Song," and "If youve got the money honey, Ive got the time." Clyde had the most beautiful smile and gorgeous blue eyes that lit up every room he walked into. He had so much love to give it was limitless. He truly loved his family and friends, but most of all, he loved the Lord Jesus Christ, following him faithfully throughout his life. He is survived by his beloved wife of 39 years, Esther Cookson; daughters, Robin (Robin) Brock of Marquette, Shelby (Eugene) Baker of Westland, Gaye (Paul) Oliver of Morley, Leann Cookson of Romulus; son, Frank Cookson of Westland; step-sons, Darrell (Mary Beth) Fenstermacher of Big Rapids, Stephan Fenstermacher of Big Rapids, Martin (Michele) Fenstermacher of Big Rapids; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, one great great-grandchild and many nieces and nephews; sisters, Betty Durham of Alabama, Billie (Jimmy) Little of Alabama; brother, Robert (Melba) Cookston of Alabama. Clyde was preceded in death by his son, Clyde Richard Cookson; parents, John Frank and Alta Carrie (Ball) Cookson; brothers, George and Oscar Cookson; sisters, Pearl Curtis and Pauline Gass. Funeral service will take place 11:00 a.m., Saturday, January 21, 2023 at Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home in Big Rapids, with Reverend Jeremy Wicks officiating. Visitation from 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., Clyde will be laid to rest at West Cemetery in Big Rapids immediately following the funeral service. Please leave a condolence, memory, or picture at www.daggettgilbertfuneralhome.com Funeral Service Saturday, January 21, 2023 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home 13985 Northland Drive Big Rapids,Michigan 49307 Visitation Saturday, January 21, 2023 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home 13985 Northland Drive Big Rapids,Michigan 49307 Burial Saturday, January 21, 2023 12:00 PM - 12:30 PM West Cemetery 20715 19 Mile Road Big Rapids,Michigan 49307