Carl Clifford Mendoza Jr.

He was born on October 12, 1937 to the late Dr. Carl C. Mendoza (Betty) and Thelma Mendoza. He graduated from The Bolles School where he was student body President, a swimmer and star quarterback. He attended Florida State University where he continued to swim and received a Bachelor’s of Science in Business Administration. He then went on to receive his Master’s from the University of North Florida. He taught history at Lee High School, worked for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida and finished his working life as the Managing Director of the Jacksonville Port Authority. He was an avid gardener, a lover of all animals, true scholar and an avid reader.

He is survived by his loving wife of 24 years, Venetia, his two children, Kiff (Lynn) Mendoza and Mary Beth (Maureen Murphy) Mendoza, four step children, Venetia (Dave) King, William (Leigh) Darby, Brit (Susan) Darby, and Amy (Chris) Walker, and 13 adoring grandchildren who affectionately called him “Dirk” and “Papasan”.

At his request, there will be no service or memorial. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in the memory of Cliff would be appreciated to the Jacksonville Humane Society, The Alzheimer’s Association, or North East Florida Community Hospice.