Clifton Matthews

Today we are gathered to celebrate the life of the illustrious Mr. Clifton (Clement) George Matthews. Clifton was born in the community of Days Mountain in St. Mary, Jamaica, West Indies on January 1, 1947. He was unexpectedly called home on Wednesday, May 30, 2012. Clifton was born unto the late Iva Dorman and Adrin Matthews. He was the eighth of ten children, 8 boys and 2 girls.

His humble beginnings began in Days Mountain, Jamaica where he attended Mason Hall All Age school. He later attended Oracabessa All Age School when he went to reside with his sister the late Vida Barriffe. Clifton was a young boy with the confidence of an industrious man. He became an entrepreneur at an early age, so what do I mean? Well, Clifton joined the coal burning industry. His brother Dudley fondly reminisces of Clifton's coal burning venture. He would seek out his clients and sell the coal. His profit was used to purchase khaki suits for his school clothing, alleviating his parents of financial burdens.

He did not have the opportunity to complete his education as a youngster, however, he placed great emphasis on education. As a result, he worked feverishly taking classes in between working to prepare himself for a high school diploma. In 2001, he successfully completed his high school diploma at the mature age of 56.

Clifton was forced to enter the workforce at the tender age of 12 years old. He worked arduously, acquiring his first home at 19 years old. Always seeking a better life and opportunity for himself and his family, Clifton migrated to the United States when he given the opportunity to work at Hot Springs Hotel in Virginia. Years later he migrated to South Florida where he worke at the Boca Raton Hotel. During the off season at the hotel, he went to work on various cruise ships throughout the Caribbean. In 1995, he began working at the Sheraton Hotel as a dining room attendant where the invaluable friendships he developed there became his extended family.

He established a solid background as a young man and needed a partner, so he ventured into the garden of the late Clifford and Florence Thompson, where he plucked the lovely rose named Gladys. On 11/11/1967, he married the late Gladys Mae Thompson, from this union, four children were born Wayne, Camille, Grace, and the late Donna. Since the twenty-six year passing of his beloved wife, his children referred to him as Daddy, mom, aunt and uncle.

He was dedicated to his family, offering help, assistance and advice whenever and however we needed. We were blessed and will continue to thrive because of his unconditional love and support. He was the breathe from which we took life. Whenever we were discouraged, he would tell us to "hang in there, it will get better soon" or "if yuh neva start, yuh neva finish". Daddy leaves behind a rich legacy with his teachings of love, respect, the meanining of friendships, strong work ethics, entrepreneurial spirit and integrity.

He was a long standing member of Pompano Beach Seventh Day Adventist Church. He was ernest in his desire to serve the Lord. He was a dedicated member, on some Wednesdays leaving the gym to attend prayer service while still in his gym clothes.

Clifton was, in summary, an entrepreneur, a waiter, dad, husband, a church brother and friend. A man for all seasons. He was caring and strived to create humor to allow those he came in contact with a stress free experience.

Clifton leaves to mourn, three children Wayne, Camille, Grace, two grandchildren Matthew and Meaghan. A daughter-in-law Erica, son-in-law Steve Newland and Avril Watkin. One sister Monica Richards, brothers Hopeton, Cecil, Roland, Rafael, and Dudley Matthews and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Go and rest now, your soul will be in peace.