Clinton B. Etheridge

Clinton B. Etheridge of Loxahatchee, Fl passed away suddenly at the age of 69. He passed peacefully at his beloved Black Coral Rum Distillery after an honest days work, 3 days shy of his 70th birthday. "Clint" began his career as a deputy with the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office on Nov. 1st 1970. He was a member of the K-9 Team with his partner Baron. He was a founding member of the SWAT team. Throughout his extensive career with the Sheriff's Office, Clint worked as a detective, an undercover agent, homicide investigator, and narcotics agent. He retired June 30th 2003 as Lieutenant Watch Commander. Throughout his career, Clint earned many commendations and awards for bravery and valor. Clint has always had a strong work ethic and maintained several jobs for most of his adult life. He worked multiple extra security details and joined the staff at Tuppen's Marine for nearly two decades to supplement his love for fishing, diving and boating. He looked most forward to annual family Keys vacations and surprising loved ones with amazing Christmas gifts. After retirement Clint filled his time with income tax preparation and the ownership/management of his Christmas tree lot. After the passing of Clint's brother, Randy in 2000, Clint joined the Nam Knights Motorcycle Club and found brotherhood that carried him through after retirement. His MC family gave him purpose, laughter, and an identity. "Cannibal" enjoyed the rides, Rock N Roll Sunday, cooking on Comedy Night and he never missed a Rolling Thunder Trip. Even though medical issues prevented him from riding his beloved Harley for the past couple of years, it was always tuned up and ready to go. In 2012 Clint and his youngest son, Ben, co-founded Black Coral Rum LLC. Clint dedicated his time and energy into growing BCR into a successful family company. Clint ate, slept and breathed this endeavor. He was always seen wearing a Black Coral Rum T-Shirt and promoting the brand. This past year Clint and Ben launched Steel Tie Spirits Co. and were getting ready to open this new Distillery to the public when he passed. He had seen the years of blood, sweat, and sacrifice come to fruition. Clint is remembered by his wife, Maryann, with whom he would be celebrating their 50th anniversary on September 19th; their children, Tyson (Susan), Erin (Richard) and Benjamin; Grandchildren, Teressa, Iris, Samuel, Elias, and Juniper, His Sister, Fran; Nephews and Nieces, Zachary (Amber), Kimberly (Billy), Brittany (Chris) as well as multiple extended family members and friends. He is preceded in passing by his Mother, Ruth; Brother, Randall; and Granddaughter, Sage as well as many other cousins, aunts and uncles. We will be having a Celebration of life and Distillery Dedication following the service at Steel Tie Spirits Co. that all are welcome to attend.