Sherman "Clarence" Chriswell

Sherman Clarence Chriswell, known to many simply as Clarence, passed away leaving behind a legacy of hard work, love, and genuine connection with others.

Clarence was born in Eadsville, Kentucky on July 14, 1940, to Lee and Maggie (Coffey) Chriswell, the third youngest of ten children. Growing up in a large family helped shape his strong values, work ethic, and appreciation for people---qualities that stayed with him throughout his life.

He moved to New Castle, Indiana with his family as a very young boy living there until a young adult, then moving to Wilkinson. Clarence began working at a gas station as a teen but later worked at Wilkinson Feed Mill, where he met the love of his life, Georgia Neff Hager. The two were married in 1963, beginning a lifelong partnership built of love and devotion.

Clarence went on to dedicate 32 years of service to Chrysler Corporation. Never one to shy away from hard work, he also owned and operated his own trucking business during much of that time, hauling loads in the hours he wasn’t at Chrysler.

In 1972, Clarence obtained his Indiana Auctioneer license, adding yet another chapter to his hardworking life. He loved a good sale, and even more, he loved finding a great deal. He and Georgia also owned and operated a ceramic shop in Wilkinson for several years. After their retirement they loved camping and enjoyed traveling in their motor home and spending time with family and friends.

Clarence dedicated his life to providing for his family but also gave back to his community by serving on the Wilkinson Volunteer Fire Department for 23 years. In addition, he served as a member of the Wilkinson Town Board for 24 years.

A man of strong faith, Clarence believed deeply in God and attended services regularly at Shirley Christian Church. His faith was a steady and guiding presence throughout his life. He was also a 50-year member of the Scottish Rite, the Shirley Masonic Lodge, and a 32 Degree Freemason, reflecting his commitment to fellowship, integrity, and service.

Above all else, Clarence loved people. He had a gift for conversation and connection---it seemed he never met a stranger, and no matter where he went, he would always run into someone he knew. Clarence will be remembered for his friendly nature, strong work ethic, and the way he made everyone feel like a friend. His life was a testament to love, and the joy found in simple conversations.

He will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Clarence is survived by his daughter, Janice (Rusty) Jackson of Wilkinson; step son, Michael (Alice) Hager of Carmel, a brother, Floyd Chriswell of Medway, OH, and a sister, Carolyn (Rev. Don) Kitchell of Gilmer, TX. He is also survived by his grandson, Bryce Jackson of Wilkinson; step-grandson, Alan Wong of Carmel, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Georgia Chriswell; his parents, three sisters, Mary Ethel Hanning, Lillie Pearl Doss, and Jewel Dorothy McBriant; four brothers, Jessie Arville, Rev. Bobby Gene, Eddie F. and Fred Ray Chriswell.

Visitation will be from 3-7 p.m. Sunday, April 12, 2026 at Hinsey-Brown Funeral Service Knightstown Chapel with a Masonic service at 7:00 p.m. Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m., Monday, April 13, 2026 at the funeral home. Burial will follow in McCray Cemetery in Wilkinson. Memorial contributions may be given to the Shirley Christian Church, 202 Meridian St., Shirley, IN 47384 or the Shirley Masonic Lodge #531, 110 Varner St., Shirley, IN, 47384. Condolences and memories of Clarence may be shared at www.hinsey-brown.com.