Charles W. Clifton, age 72 of Arlington, passed away on September 27, 2018 with his family at his side. He was born on June 15, 1946 in Cleburne, Texas the son of Clovis Charles Clifton and Minnie Brand Clifton. Charles married Jill Nichols Collins November 23, 1991 and they celebrated 27 years of marriage before his passing.
Charles grew up playing most every sport Rio Vista High School offered at the time, excelling at all he attempted. He was determined his athleticism would help him get a college education. By his senior year, he won first place in the Long Jump event in May, 1964, setting a record UIL state meet record with his 24'6" jump. That record set in 1964 is still standing 54 years later. Charles was offered a full scholarship to the University of Texas Austin graduating in 1969. Charles’ love for sports continued after graduating, coaching at Cleburne High School as a teacher and coach. He coached multiple sports including his position as Head Track Coach. While at Cleburne High School, Charles earned a master's degree from the University of North Texas. Charles' second career began in 1982 working for then Chapparal Steel, Midlothian, TX retiring in March, 2018 from Gerdau Steel with 36 years of service. In his spare time, Charles loved traveling, photography, sports, and astronomy. He loved doing Saturday and Sunday Brunch with Jill and any of his children and grands who were available. He loved attending the grands' activities as well. Charles supported charities to raise funds for American Cancer Society and affiliates, Easter Seals North Texas, and the Longhorn Foundation.
Charles is survived by his wife, Jill; children Bill Clifton and wife Nicole, Andy Clifton and wife Amy, Annajane Clifton, Lance Collins and wife Francine, Rachel Collins, and Brett Collins; grandchildren Gabe Collins, Emma Clifton, Annalise Collins, Katelyn Collins, Logan Clifton, Adlee Clifton, Sadie Clifton, Kash Collins, Liam Clifton, Braelyn Clifton, Riggs Clifton, Nikki Laboy and Amanda Bonds.
A celebration of Charles’ life will be at 2:00pm on Saturday, October 6, 2018 at the Cendera Center, Fort Worth. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Charles’ memory to Covenant Classical School of Fort Worth or the Easter Seals of North Texas.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18