Ira Freddie Van Cleave

Ira Freddie Van Cleave, 90, passed away on Oct. 6 at his home in Quitman.  

Ira was born on Jan. 19, 1932 in Clay County. Ira served as an electrician in the United States Navy and 25 years as a Dallas police officer. He also owned several businesses and was a published children’s book author.  

He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary, of 59 years; his daughter, Kimberly Williams; his grandson, Dakota Bayliss; granddaughter, Alysha Van Cleave; as well as six brothers and sisters.  

He is survived by his son, Fred Van Cleave of Mineola, and two daughters, Karen Van Cleave and Kathy McAbee both of Quitman. Surviving grandchildren are Shane Early of Dunkirk, Md.; Whitley Williams of Ardmore, Okla.; Dalton Bayliss of Hawkins; Delaney Bayliss of Quitman; Sydney, Ryleigh and Caleb Van Cleave all of Mineola; and Nathan Williams; and Zachary Van Cleave. He also has five great-grandchildren, Anika and Christian Huebner-Earley, Nathan and Noah Williams and Harper Bayliss.  

Visitation for Ira was held from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 12 at Lowe-Gardner Funeral Home.

Funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 13 at Hainesville Baptist Church with Brother Terry Davis officiating. Graveside service will follow at Concord Cemetery.

Serving as pallbearers are Fred Van Cleave, Danny McAbee, Paul Staton, Forrest Tyler, Dalton Bayliss and Caleb Van Cleave.