Clifford Clark Neilson

It is with great sadness that the family of Clifford Clark Neilson (ret COL) announces his passing on 17 April 2024. Clifford died peacefully in his home. Cliff was born on 30 October 1931 in New York City to Clifford Hall Neilson and Janet Thompson Neilson. During his youth, he lived in New York. His father joined the military in WWII and the family moved around to various military bases until his father was deployed abroad. At that time, they moved to be near family in Shreveport, LA. Cliff entered West Point and graduated with the class of 1953 as a US Army 2nd lieutenant. In 1954 he married Mary Lou Webb who predeceased him in 1997. COL Neilson had a fulfilling Army career. He was deployed to Vietnam in 1967 and commanded an infantry battalion in the 25th Infantry Division. It was during this assignment that COL Neilson was awarded two Silver Stars for bravery. His other medals include two Legions of Merit, the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Bronze Star, six Air Medals and the Army Commendation Medal. During his tour in Vietnam COL Neilson kept a handwritten diary of life during combat which was donated to the Swem Library at William and Mary College at their request. The library considered it an honor to have this diary. COL Neilson retired in 1975, obtained his MBA from American University and worked as Vice President of a Professional service firm until retirement in 1993. In his retirement Cliff became very interested and successful in the field of Family History. As a family historian, he had many clients, and volunteered at The National Archives, a job he enjoyed immensely. For his next chapter he married Stephanie Heller and they retired to Williamsburg, VA in 2001. Cliff continued to be very involved in his Family History work being the guest speaker at several Genealogy Conventions. He also taught a course for the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) on family history research. In addition to his genealogy Cliff enjoyed his family, golf, his garden plot and koi pond. He created a beautiful garden at his home that was admired by many and was on the Virginia Garden Tour in 2018. Cliff is survived by his wife, Stephanie; his sister, Victoria; three children, Clark (Anne), Jan (Pat), Doug (Ania); and his stepdaughters, Amanda (Brian) and Lindsay (John). He also leaves behind to cherish his memory 12 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. And last but not least, Honey his most beloved pup who showered him with love. A service for Cliff will be held Saturday, May 11, 2024 at 11:30 AM at Bruton Parish Church, 201 W. Duke of Gloucester Street, Williamsburg, Virginia. He lived a long and wonderful life and was grateful for every moment. In lieu of flowers please donate to the Salvation Army or a charity of your choice. Memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.NelsenWilliamsburg.com.