Clifford Edward Hyers, 93, of Patterson, entered his eternal home Sunday evening, September 7, 2025, surrounded by his family, following an extended illness.
Born June 14, 1932, in Patterson, he was a son of the late Clifford and Elouise Griner Hyers. A lifelong resident of Pierce County, he was a 1949 graduate of Patterson High School and was drafted into the United States Army shortly after graduation. He served with honor for two years, achieving the rank of sergeant. Upon returning home, he partnered with his father in the Patterson Milling Company and pursued his greatest passion-farming. His dedication to agriculture earned him the title of Young Farmer of the Year in Pierce County.
He also believed deeply in serving his community. In 1962, he was elected mayor of Patterson, becoming the youngest mayor in Georgia at the time. He further gave of his time through civic service as president of the Patterson Lions Club from 1969-1970 and as a member of the Pierce County Board of Education from 1978-1982.
His greatest devotion, however, was to his faith. He was a faithful member of Patterson Baptist Church, having served as an active deacon for 61 years and taught junior boys’ Sunday school, faithfully pouring into the next generation.
In 1955, he met the love of his life, Diane Davis. They married that same year and shared 70 joyful years together, raising four daughters and building a legacy of love and faith. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and father-in-law whose life was marked by kindness, service and integrity.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Anna Lisa Hyers Keith; his sisters, Marjorie Hyers Bland and Beverly Hyers Johnson Hires and his brother, Cleve Hyers.
Survivors include his beloved wife, Diane Davis Hyers, Patterson; daughters, Carla (Terry) Tuten, Hahira, Holly (Scott) Yeomans , Mershon, and Merry Gayle (Lin) Boatright, Blackshear; a large, loving family of grandchildren-Deanna Smoak, Lee Yeomans (Danielle), Cliff Knowlton (Ellen), Julianna Anderson (Josh), Caroline Murray (Tyler), Laura Kate Dixon (Blake), Merry Chandler Keith, Davis Callahan (Mac), Hayden Knowlton, Jackson Knowlton and Anna Lisa Sturdivant (Chandler); 21 great-grandchildren and many extended family members who will carry forward his legacy.
He will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to family, his tireless work ethic, his faithful service to his church, and his deep devotion to the community he cherished. Above all, he will be remembered for the simple testimony he shared: “God is so good!”
Visitation will be from 10-11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 13, at Patterson Baptist Church.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 13, from the Patterson Baptist Church.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice Satilla, 808 Evergreen Way, Waycross, GA 31501 or Patterson Baptist Church, P.O. Box 385, Patterson, GA 31557.
Sympathy may be expressed by signing online at www.hartfh.com.
Hart Funeral Home of Blackshear is in charge of arrangements.
