Clarence Thomas Dalton

Clarence was a devoted husband to his wife of 65 years, Dorothy Nelms Dalton, with whom he shared an unwavering love and companionship. He is survived by his wife, Dorothy, five children, Bonnie Roberts (Ronnie), Wanda Bernardini, Tammy Owens, (David), Christopher Dalton, and Craig Dalton (Angie), who will carry on his legacy of love and dedication. Clarence was also a proud grandfather to 12 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

Clarence was a man of many talents and interests. He was a skilled builder and woodworker, and his craftsmanship can be seen in the many swings he built that grace the porches and gardens around his community. Clarence and Dorothy built three houses together, working side by side, including their current home of forty-four years in Watkinsville, Georgia. He was also a skilled cabinetmaker, known for his attention to detail and dedication to his craft.

An avid scuba diver and lover of the water, Clarence enjoyed his time scuba diving and even helped with search and research efforts. He spent years researching and writing about his family history, publishing three editions of genealogy books. He also authored a book entitled The Grandfather, along with many poems, stories, and articles.

Clarence retired from the U.S. Postal Service and subsequently from the University of Georgia Postal Service, where he was known for his hard work and commitment. He later worked as a groundskeeper and bus driver for Oconee County High School, where he was a dedicated and respected member of the school community.

His devotion extended beyond his family and work. Clarence spent many years serving the Lord, embodying the values of kindness, humility, and service to others. A dedicated Sunday school teacher, Clarence loved bringing others to the Lord and was passionate about music. He often sang old hymns, country songs, and folk songs, lending his voice to many church services and singing along to his favorite tunes, especially in his living room belting out songs with the Saturday night shows on the RFD Channel. Many times, he could be heard over The Gaithers Gospel Choir, Marty Stuart, the Grand Ole Opry reruns and more.

Clarence was preceded in death by his parents, Maudie Bell Dalton and Frank Thomas Dalton, his sisters, Dorothy Jean Singleton and Moina Petree, and his brother, Telford Dalton.

Clarence was a pillar of strength and faith, a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, who will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A gathering of family and friends will be held 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Wednesday, September 4, 2024, in Bernstein Funeral Home.

A graveside funeral service will be held 11:00 AM, Thursday, September 5, 2024, in Old New Hope Church Cemetery in Between with Reverend Jimmy Edwards officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a charity of choice in Clarence's memory.

May his soul rest in peace, and may his memory continue to be a blessing to those who loved him.

Bernstein Funeral Home is in charge of funeral arrangements.