Clarence William Short

Clarence William “Bo” Short, 82, of Americus died Tuesday, Sept. 22 after a long period of declining health. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 24 at Central Baptist Church in Americus, with visitation to follow. Burial with military honors will be at Andersonville National Cemetery at noon. Nephews will serve as pallbearers. Friends may also visit the family Wednesday evening at the Short’s residence.

Mr. Short was born June 9, 1944 in Americus, son of the late Clarence Belvy Short and the late Ruth Lee Turner Short. He was a 1962 graduate of Plains High School, where he excelled in athletics, earning a college baseball scholarship. He earned an undergraduate degree from Florida State University in Tallahassee and a master’s degree from Georgia Southwestern College in Americus. He spent more than three decades working as a teacher and a vocational rehabilitation counselor. He later served as assistant coach and athletic director at Southland Academy in Americus. He was adored by countless athletes as “Coach Bobo.” He also served as a high school referee and was well-known and respected across South Georgia. A military veteran, Mr. Short served as a light infantryman specialist from 1970 to 1972, and was stationed in Friedberg, Germany, for a year. Mr. Short was a longtime member of Central Baptist Church in Americus.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, L.L. “Jack” Short Sr.; and two sisters, Peggy S. Israel and Patsy S. Medlock. Survivors include his wife of 55 years, Nancy Howells Short; a daughter and son-in- law, Laura S. Rooks and William Rooks of Americus; a son and daughter-in-law, Chan Short and Dr. Rebecca Short of Americus; four grandchildren, Annslee Rooks, Adalyn Rooks; Kathlyn Short, and Bo Short; two sisters-in-law, Frances Short of Americus and Kristine H. Lebbos of Charlotte, N.C.; several nieces and nephews; great-nieces and great-nephews; and countless friends.

In lieu of flowers donations can be in Mr. Short’s memory to Southland Academy Athletic Department.

To sign the online guest book and share your condolences with the family, please visit aldridgefuneralservices.com. Aldridge Funeral & Cremation Services is in charge of the arrangements.