2008 was a tough year on many AgNet family and friends it seems, all the way through. AgNet regrets to report the loss on New Year’s Eve of Gloyice Elmore Ard, whose son, Sam Ard, Florida cattle industry legislative representative, says was “a unique and special man”. Friends may offer condolences on-line by clicking here.
Gloyice Elmore Ard, March 8, 1928 – December 31, 2008
Captain Gloyice Ard, 80, died peacefully with his family by his side Wednesday, December 31, 2008, following a 3-year battle with cancer. He was a member of the Orange Beach United Methodist Church. Funeral services were held January 3 in Robertsdale, AL. One of Gloyice’s greatest passions was the Camp Rap-a-hope childrens cancer program. He provided the initial impetus for the Orange Beach Fishing Association’s (OBFA) involvement in annually taking children suffering from cancer deep-sea fishing. Gloyice was a tireless advocate for this program, and for this reason the family requests that donations in lieu of flowers be given to: Camp Rap-a-Hope, Capt. Ard Fund, 2701 Airport Blvd,Mobile, AL 36606.
Gloyice and his wife Lillie owned Ard’s Flying Service in Jay, Florida, for 30
years. Following their retirement in 1994, they moved to Orange Beach,
Alabama, where he enjoyed many years as Captain of the charter boat “Boll
Weevil,” at Zeke’s Marina. He did not consider it to be just a job, but his
dream retirement.
He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and a friend to many.
Gloyice was preceded in death by his parents Sam and Arrelia Ard, sisters
Elsie Kuck, Mary Givens, and Cloe Steadham, and his brothers Merriel, Bernie
and Duane Ard.
He his survived by Lillie, his wife of 50 years, three sons Sam (Lee) of
Tallahassee, Fl, Royce (Tamara) of Columbus, Ga,and Tom (Kim) of Orange
Beach, Al, and daughter Cynthia McNabb of Dothan, Al; sister Susie Mae
Richardson, and brothers W. D. and Alonzo Ard all of Robertsdale.
He has seven grandchildren: Emily, Austin Lee, William, Samual, Margaret
Kay, Garrett, Melissa, and one great-granddaughter.
Gloyice was very committed to the professions that served his career. His
active participation resulted in Gloyice being named an honorary lifetime
Director of the Florida Agricultural Aviation Association, and lifetime
member of the Orange Beach Fishing Association. He was a member of the Free
& Accepted Masons of Florida, Jay Lodge 176.
The family will receive friends and relations following burial at the Bethel Baptist Church, 25222 East Hwy. 90, Robertsdale.
Funeral arrangements are by Mack Funeral Home, Robertsdale, Al.
Pall Bearers are: John Cameron, John Gianinni, Mike Goodwin, Danny Hovark,
Ryan Jenkins, and Lee Lane.