Ray Clifton

Macklin Ray Clifton, April 19, 1945 – April 18, 2018, is survived by his wife of 53 years, Shirley; sons Scott and Chris (Karen); and his mother Evelyn. His family includes seven grandchildren Brandon, Dylon, Bryson, Wyatt, Jessica, Schelby, and Savana; and one great-grandson, Treven. They were Ray’s pride and joy. Ray also leaves a brother, Bobby; and sisters, Jackie Hall and Jan Coyle. Although Ray was a father of two, he was also a dad to his beloved nieces and nephews.

Ray was a man of faith, serving his Lord as a deacon and children’s Sunday School teacher at Southside Baptist Church in Jacksonville. As the head of his family, Ray set an example of sacrificial love and devotion. Ray was a man of many hobbies, as well as a student of World War II and a patriot.

Ray began his career with the Jacksonville Police Department in 1966. After consolidation in 1968, he continued to serve with the newly formed Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. In the early 70s, Ray was one of the original SWAT Team/Dive Team members. In 1978, Ray was promoted to Sergeant and supervised patrol, special operations, traffic, and walking beats. He retired in 1996 after 30 years of service in the JSO. Sergeant Clifton then continued to work as a bailiff in the Duval County Courthouse. After the Cliftons moved to Callahan, Ray joined the Nassau County Sheriff’s Office and worked as a deputy in the Nassau County Courthouse until he retired in 2008.

Donations may be made in Ray's memory to the Preschool and Children's Ministries of Southside Baptist Church, 1435 Atlantic Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32207