Clarence was born December 28, 1935 in St. Elizabeth, Jamaica, the only child of the late Ethel Jones and Wilbert Dunkley. He attended Bethlehem School where he learned trades in Agriculture and Construction. Clarence lost his father at the early age of nine and spent his childhood caring for livestock and crops on the family farm. He later met his wife, Winnifred, whom he called “Winnie” and they were married the summer of June 1961. Clarence and Winnifred were married for 58 years and were blessed with nine children. Clarence migrated to the United States in 1987 to join his wife and family where he worked as a Maintenance Technician for nearly twenty-five years before his retirement.
Clarence was known for his kind and effervescent spirit. His personality and voice could awake a quiet room. Clarence was active in his church and community. While residing in Jamaica, he was a member of Bethlehem Moravian Church. On many Sunday mornings, he would go before the Church congregation and sing his favorite hymn, “I Have a Friend, A Precious Friend, and Oh How He Loves Me”. Clarence had a great voice and was known for his keen, unique ability to hold a note. Before his passing, he was a current member of New Beginnings Church of God. There he thrilled them with his powerful baritone voice.
Clarence was a vibrant man that was truly loved and will always be cherished. “Papa” as he was affectionately called by his family and friends was a committed Husband, Father, Grandfather, and Great-Grandfather, but most importantly a faithful child of God. Clarence took pride in raising his children to love and honor God. There was never a Sunday where he would allow them to stay home from church.
Clarence was called home the morning of February 8, 2019, at 83 years of life. His final days were spent surrounded by family and friends that deeply honored and respected him. Clarence touched many lives through his songs and stories. He had a contagious smile that bought much joy to everyone he encountered.
Clarence is survived by his loving Wife, Winnifred, their nine children, twenty-five grandchildren and twenty-five great-grandchildren:
Children:
Theresa, Fay, Hazelin, Kennedy, John, Clive, Garnett, Godfrey, and Stacey.
Grandchildren:
Katherine, Najwha, Ricardo, Andre, Nicole, Kennis (deceased), Richard, Olivene, Bryce, Bryan, Dominique, Avril, Romaine, Deandra, Kenisha, Shante, Clive JR., Sean, Jasmine, Keonna, Sheldon, Sarah, Kion, Malik, and Samantha.
Great-Grandchildren:
Dominique, Mario, Lisa, Adam, Alexandria, Alex, Karsten, Erin, Bellamy, Rickoi, Romario, Roderick, Leilana, Mathew, Micah, Romaine JR (1), Romaine JR (2), Malachi, Melonie, Ariana, Marcus, Za’Dera, Braylen, Egypt, Aubrey.
Clarence’s family held a special place in his heart and they will forever carry him in their hearts and thoughts. May God grant him sweet rest.
