The Clumsy Mule

Jerry Clower was a late bloomer in the entertainment industry. He was already in his 40s when he recorded "A Coon Huntin' Story." This story was so popular that he soon had a national forum. Clower went on to entertain millions with his comedic tales of the Ledbetter family and other characters.

Unlike most stand-up comedians, Clower shunned one line jokes in favor of short stories with a punch line at the end. Sometimes he would throw you a curve by making it an inspirational illustration rather than a joke. He frequently drew you into his world with subjects that anyone familiar with a rural upbringing could appreciate.

To top it off, he was clean. As Clower said, "I ain't never made an album you couldn't play in church."

Clower passed away in 1998 at the age of 71.