07/22/2026
There are some people who leave an imprint on your life simply by being who they are.
Today, my heart is heavy as I remember my dear friend, Santa Clyde.
I’ve known Clyde since I was a little girl. He worked with my dad for many years. Then when I was searching for a new Santa after mine retired, my dad mentioned that Clyde had been playing Santa. I gave him a call, and from that day on he became so much more than Santa for my Christmas sessions.
While he wore the red suit so well, what made him truly special wasn’t the beard or the costume. It was his kind heart. He had a gift for making every child feel seen, important, and loved. Whether he was listening to Christmas wishes, reading a story, or watching little ones open a Christmas gift, he created moments that families will treasure forever.
Clyde was such a generous soul - he never let me pay him. Instead, he quietly gave. He often made homemade cinnamon rolls for my helpers, and throughout the year he collected little stuffed animals so every child who visited Santa could leave with a special gift. That’s just who he was. He found joy in making other people smile.
I would also like to recognize his wonderful wife, Deanne. So much of what Clyde was able to give was because she was right there beside him, supporting him every step of the way. Her thoughtfulness and generosity never went unnoticed, and I will always be grateful for all she did behind the scenes.
Looking through these photos today, I’m reminded that they were never just Christmas pictures. They captured moments of wonder, laughter, and kindness. They hold memories of countless families, my own five children, and even my granddaughter’s very first visit with Santa. Somewhere along the way, the man I’d known since childhood became part of so many family’s Christmas traditions, including my own.
Thank you, Santa Clyde, for showing all of us what the spirit of Christmas really looks like. Thank you for the memories, the laughter, the cinnamon rolls, the little stuffed animals, and for the countless acts of kindness—both big and small—that touched so many lives.
Rest peacefully, my friend. You will be deeply missed.
Please keep Clyde’s family and loved ones in your thoughts and prayers. ❤️🎅
