Clifton was born February 5, 1925 in Chicago, the son of Ray Thompson and Marie Schultz. He married Dolores G. Stashwick on June 11, 1949 in Chicago.
Clifton earned his bachelor's degree from the University of Illinois in 1949 and his master's degree in 1950 in Education. He served his country during WWII in the 5th Division of the U.S. Marines and was wounded in the historic battle of Iwo Jima.
He had a long career with District 186 as an educator, first as teacher, then counselor, assistant principal, and lastly as a principal. Clifton was a member of Westminster Presbyterian Church for over 60 years, where he served as an Elder. He co-founded the TP Day Camp, a summer camp that had an impact on hundreds of Springfield residents.
After retirement, Clifton volunteered at Habitat for Humanity and Lewis Memorial Christian Village. In recent years, while living at Concordia Village, he started and led a long-running men's discussion group.
He was a life-long athlete, playing semi-pro baseball in Central Illinois in his 20s and golfing until the age of 90. He was known for his ready wit and sense of humor, which sustained him and his family to his last days. He was a humble man who enjoyed the friendship and respect of those who knew him.
He was preceded in death by his parents. Clifton is survived by a family who loved and revered him: his wife, Dolores of Springfield; sons, Steven (Victoria Chou) of Oak Park, Randall (Beverly) of Paradise Valley, AZ, and Michael (Gail) of Kernersville, NC; brother-in-law, Tad Stashwick (Carole); eight grandchildren: Jocelyn, Lindsay, Samantha, Sean, Stephanie, Kevin, Jennifer and Alex; and seven great-grandchildren.
Cremation was accorded by Butler Cremation Tribute Center prior to ceremonies. The family will host a memorial service at 2 p.m. on Saturday, January 6, 2018 at Concordia Village, 4101 W. Iles Ave., Springfield. Please visit boardmansmith.com to offer your condolences.
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