Clyde Charles Hurst, II

Clyde Charles Hurst, II, 61, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 23, 2023, at Fort Walton Destin Hospital following an extended battle with illness. 

Clyde was born in Norfolk, Virginia, to parents Lee and Joan (Carlson) Hurst. Clyde served honorably in the United States Air Force, and achieved a Masters degree in Computer Science from the University of West Florida before enjoying a long career as a government contractor in cybersecurity, working closely with the USAF throughout his professional life. Clyde also took great pride in his impressive achievement of being a fifth degree black belt in martial arts, and was named Master Instructor of the Year in 2007.

During his best days, Clyde enjoyed adventures. Whether driving a jeep on the land range, taking his boat out in the sound, or putting a trick shot right in the hole at Goofy Golf, he was sure to enjoy the moment. Clyde was also an excellent cook, and was in his element in the kitchen; gumbo, alfredo, and pulled pork were some of his specialties. He could often be heard singing around the house, and loved a good improvised song parody. One of the places he was happiest was sitting in his garage with his friends from around the neighborhood. 

Clyde was a fast friend to many, leaving behind a great number of people who mourn his loss and honor his memory. He is survived by his sons, Matthew (Emily) Hurst and Lee Hurst; grandchildren, Danny and Eliza Hurst; mother, Joan Hurst; sister, Kathleen (Blair) Finkelstein; brothers, James (Debbie) Hurst and Mark Hurst; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and cherished friends. 

Clyde was preceded in death by his grandparents and his father. 

The family would like to thank the many people who have been involved in his care, particularly over the last three years, including Okaloosa County first responders, and Lauren, an Intensive Care Unit nurse at Fort Walton Destin Hospital, whom provided care for Clyde on many occasions. 

Arrangements are entrusted to Davis Watkins Funeral Home in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. Friends may call at Davis-Watkins Funeral Home at 113 Racetrack Road, NE, in Fort Walton Beach, Florida from 5:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. on Wednesday, April 26, 2023. Private burial will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation at www.cff.org.