Clifford “Sonny” Lee Lipford Jr. was born February 21, 1934, in Muscogee, Georgia, and passed away on March 3, 2026, at the age of 92. A beloved, hard-working man, Sonny lived in Columbus, Georgia, and will be remembered with deep respect and gratitude by all who knew him.
Sonny built a life rooted in hard work and purpose. He worked as a conductor for CSX Railways, where he retired with 42 years of service. He was well respected not only for his skill and commitment but also for his honesty and character. He has always had a love for trains and even after he retired, he enjoyed collecting any train memorabilia.
Above all else, he was a family man. He was a loving husband and father to all his children, offering unconditional love throughout their lives. He was a simple man whose words were little but powerful as his actions taught us to work hard, stay humble, and take care of the people you love.
He found joy in life’s simple pleasure, like being outdoors and gardening. He could take a dying plant or flower and turn it into something beautiful; it was amazing of all the things he would grow in his green house.
Sonny was a member of Edgewood Church of Christ for 39 years. He loved serving the lord and loved the music and fellowship.
Sonny was preceded in death by his parents, Clifford Lee Lipford Sr. and Mary “Honey” Opal Lipford.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 38 years, Dotty Lipford; his children, Carolyn Harrelson (Ben), Lisa Crow (Greg), Clifford “Buddy” Lee Lipford III (Teresa), and Kelly Dover (Jeff); his stepchildren, Alex Baker and Mitchell Baker (Pam); as well as 9 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren, and 2 great great grandchildren.
Visitation for Family and Friends will be held at Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, Chapel Foyer, 4071 Macon Road, Columbus, GA 31907, on March 7, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm.
A Funeral Service will be held at Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, Fisher Chapel, 4071 Macon Road, Columbus, GA 31907, on March 7, 2026, at 2:00 pm.
