Joan Marie Clifton

Joan was born on October 2, 1930, in Danville, Illinois, to Joseph and Loretto Regan.

During the 1950's, in Joan's early 20's, she worked as a high-end clothing model for the Los Angeles fashion scene. She was also a lifetime member of the local chapter of Epsilon Sigma Alpha, an international women's sorority.

Joan is preceded in death by her late husband, Willard Alvin Clifton Jr., with whom she started and operated Valley Well & Pump Company, a water well drilling, pump sales, and repair business which served the Central Valley communities for over 50 years. During the 57 years that Joan and Willard shared together, they enjoyed raising their family, traveling, camping in their RV, fishing, and flying in various private planes that Willard would pilot.

Joan was also preceded in death by her brother and only sibling, Maurice Regan, who worked for the Fresno Police Department as a lieutenant, and who, after retirement, owned and operated a private detective agency in Fresno.

Joan is survived by her loving children, as well as 13 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.

All of those who knew Joan remember her as smart and funny and remember being greeted by her warm smile and infectious laugh. Her legacy of love and kindness will continue on through those she touched throughout her life.

The family would like to offer their thanks to everyone who has reached out during this difficult time.

Joan's kind-hearted presence and dedication to her loved ones will remain an enduring part of their lives.