Clyde Patrick "Pat" Drewett

Clyde Patrick Drewett, Sr., 77, was born September 27, 1939, and passed away peacefully September 8, 2017, at his home surrounded by loved ones. Visitation will be held in the First United Methodist Church of West Monroe’s parlor, Saturday, September 16, 2017, at 10:00 AM. A memorial service celebrating his joyous life will immediately follow at 11:00 AM in the sanctuary. Rev. Jon Tellifero will officiate the service and the Honorable (Ret.) Jerome Owens will deliver the eulogy.

Clyde Patrick Drewett, Sr., more affectionately known as “the Colonel” or Pat, was born in Angola, LA. A man of great-wit, Pat loved to tell people that he was one of few people to ever leave Angola Prison. He was actually raised at the prison with his brother and sisters while his grandfather served as the warden. After the family relocated to Jena, LA, Pat made life-long friends and memories while playing football for the Jena Giants. He enrolled and played football for Northwestern State University until he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. Pat was later accepted into the prestigious NESAC program at Auburn University where he met the love of his life, Suellen, on a blind date for the Marine Corp Ball. After receiving his BS in Mathematics, Pat embarked upon a rewarding military career. He served as an enlisted soldier during the Bay of Pigs, and soon after attended Officers’ Candidate School, receiving top honors. He eventually became a fighter pilot, and was known to his fellow aviators as “Fingerprint”, flying the F-8 Crusader – recognized today as “The Last of the Gunfighters.” During his tour in Vietnam, he served as Combat Division Leader & Tactical Air Controller. His last tour of duty was that of Flight Instructor for Advanced Jet Training. After his tours of duty, he worked in the civilian field, but later re-entered the military while attending Advanced Engineering School in Fort Belvoir. He retired as Major from the 205th Engineering Battalion in Bogalusa, LA.

Pat’s retirement was short-lived as he soon enrolled in William Carey College to pursue an advanced degree in education. After receiving a M.A. Ed. in 1994, Pat began sharing his passion for mathematics and physics to high school and college students. He even became a volunteer math instructor at the local prison. Although his pursuits resulted in numerous teaching awards, his greatest reward came from the scholastic achievements and careers of many of his students. Throughout Pat’s diverse careers, he was respected for his work ethic, integrity, and character: his formula for life. He had the ability and willingness to help others solve not just math problems, but everyday life problems. He was a man of strong faith who loved his country and mankind and served them both well. He was a true hero.

Pat was preceded in death by his parents, Langdon and Johnnye Drewett, his sisters, Emma Jen Harrison, Doris Edwards, Iva Lou Bonds, Johnette Jacobs, and brother Langdon Drewett. He is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Suellen Mercer Drewett; daughter, Patti Drewett Wilhite; son, Clyde Patrick (C.P.) Drewett, Jr. and his wife Elizabeth; grandchildren, Hope and Heather Wilhite and Langdon and Reagan Drewett. Pat also leaves behind his sister, Vicki Buckhalter and her husband, John and a host of loving nieces, nephews, and cousins. Through all of his accomplishments, Pat’s greatest pride and joy were his children and grandchildren. He felt that there was no other role more essential and eternal than that of husband, father, and grandfather.

Pat was a longtime member of First United Methodist Church in West Monroe, where he faithfully attended and frequently taught the Ed Stinson Sunday School Class and where he sang in the church choir. Pat was also a member of the local Military Officers Association and he belonged to numerous bridge groups. He was extremely artistic and enjoyed woodworking, renovating houses, designing landscapes, and helping his daughter design and build sets for local charity fundraisers.

Pat’s most difficult battle began seven years ago, when his body was stricken with a neuromuscular disease. Family and friends witnessed his great courage, intestinal fortitude, and grace throughout his illness. His wife, Suellen, worked tirelessly to make his final days comfortable and peaceful. The family would like to thank all of those that provided Pat with loving care including: Wayne Rutledge, FNP, Dr. James Eppinette, Melanie Massey Physical Therapy, St. Francis Home Health Care, Louisiana Hospice and Palliative Care, Delana Coates, Amanda McClelland, Melissa Hardin, and Wendy Martin.

The family requests memorials be made to First United Methodist Church of West Monroe.