Rev. Clyde Franklin Painter

Rev. Clyde Franklin Painter, age 82 of Calhoun, Georgia, passed away on Wednesday, November 4th, 2026 at his residence.

Rev. Painter was born in Dalton, Georgia on September 3rd, 1944, a son of the late Isaac Painter and the late Ida Mae Brackett Painter. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by three brothers, Alvin, Wallace and Jackie Painter. Mr. Painter was a plumber by trade, but his life took a special direction when he answered the calling of Christ and devoted himself to ministry. For the past 50 years, he faithfully served as a pastor to six churches, and was most recently the pastor of Welcome Hill Baptist Church in Ringgold. His commitment to God and his love for others were evident in the way he lived, served, and cared for those around him. Beyond the pulpit, Mr. Painter was a friend to his community and one of Gordon County’s biggest supporters. He was actively involved in the Gordon County School System, where he especially enjoyed serving as a special education bus monitor. He treasured the opportunity to build relationships with students and families, making a difference in the lives of those he encountered. In his spare time, he enjoyed fishing, travelling, and attending UGA Football games but above all, he cherished his family and the time spent with those he loved. Mr. Painter will be remembered as a devoted pastor, faithful servant of God, beloved grandfather, and a friend to his community. His life was a true example of unwavering faith, selfless service, and genuine love for others. The countless lives he touched through his ministry, his community involvement, and his acts of kindness stand as a legacy that will never be forgotten.

Survivors include his precious and devoted wife, Sherry Hall Painter; four children, Tim Painter (Cheryl), Jeff Painter (Barbie), Kacee Smith (Belinda), and Kendra Pickens (Kendall); nine grandchildren and several great-grandchildren.

Funeral Services will be held on Sunday, November 8th, 2026, at 3 PM at South Calhoun Baptist Church with Rev. Keith James officiating. Interment will follow in Sugar Valley Baptist Church Cemetery. Pallbearers include Tim Watkins, Tim Canalas, Sam Beasley, Mike Keefe, Caleb Gibson, and Tim Burke. These gentlemen are asked to assemble at 2:30 on Sunday at South Calhoun Baptist Church. Honorary pallbearers include all of his grandchildren.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, November 7th from 4 PM until 7 PM at the funeral home.

Mr. Painter will lie-in-state from 1 PM until 3 PM on Sunday at South Calhoun Baptist Church.

You may leave the family online condolences at www.thomasfuneralhomecalhoun.com

Thomas Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Mr. Clyde Franklin Painter.