Gerald Bea Clapp of Blackwell, Oklahoma, died Friday evening, June 27, 2008, in the Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, Kansas, at the age of 68 years.

Gerald Bea Clapp was born on May 12, 1940, in Barnsdall, Oklahoma, to Alex Bea and Zenoba (Plant) Clapp. He grew up in Barnsdall graduating from Barnsdall High School. Following his education he entered the Army National Guard serving two years. Upon his completion of duty he entered the United States Navy on October 29, 1957, and was honorably discharged on May 6, 1960. On February 11, 1962, he married Elsie Kenyon Stafford in Blackwell and they settled in Blackwell. For many years he worked in the construction business at refineries and compressor stations until an accident forced his retirement in the mid 1980's. He was a member of the American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars. He enjoyed fishing and yard work.

He is survived by a daughter, DeRhonda Watkins of Blackwell, Oklahoma; a son, Gerald R. Clapp of Blackwell, Oklahoma; four grandchildren; and one great grandchild.

He was preceded in death by his wife; his parents; a daughter, Kimberly Clapp; a brother, Donald Ray Clapp; a sister, Wanda Lee Miller; and two grandchildren, Brandon Ray Watkins and Brandy Michelle Clapp.

Graveside services are scheduled for 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, July 2nd, in the Blackwell Cemetery with burial to follow in Blackwell Cemetery.

Serving as honorary casketbearers will be Spc. Dustin Watkins, Gary Watkins, Bruce Ramsey and Gerald Clapp.