Ferndale Clifford Sullins

Ferndale Sullins passed away peacefully on September 28, 2024, surrounded by her loving family and her parish priest. She will always be remembered as a beautiful, loving, and genuine soul who touched the hearts of everyone she met.

Born in Grand Saline, Texas, to Uly and Claudia Clifford, Ferndale graduated from Grand Saline High School, where she was the star cheerleader both on the field and throughout her life, as she endlessly cheered on those she loved. She never missed an opportunity to support her family—whether it was attending sporting events, graduations, or the births of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, she was always there, encouraging and celebrating each milestone. Her love for life extended to the dance floor, where she was often the first to start dancing at family gatherings, and her joyful spirit was contagious. Ferndale was truly our family’s greatest cheerleader, in every sense of the word, and her fun-loving, dancing spirit will be remembered fondly by all who knew her.

While still in high school, she met the love of her life, Ted Sullins from Terrell, Texas. After Ted returned from serving in WWII, they married in 1946 and began a beautiful life together, sharing over 75 wonderful years of marriage. Ferndale was particularly fond of their time in Aggieland, where Ted pursued his degree at Texas A&M University. She worked as a secretary at the university, and her pride in those Aggie days was something she carried with her for life. Her connection to Aggieland was deep, and she loved reminiscing about their time spent there. Watching her beloved Texas A&M Aggies play football was one of her greatest joys, and it was the only time we would ever hear her yell—cheering for her team with all the passion she had.

Ferndale will be remembered for her endless generosity, her selflessness, and her unwavering support for her family and friends. She had a gift for making everyone feel special, and her warm smile and attentive spirit left an indelible mark on all who knew her.

A devoted Catholic, Ferndale was the family's prayer warrior, always turning to her faith to guide her. She was honored to serve as a Eucharistic minister at St. Rita Catholic Church, where sharing the Body of Christ with others brought her deep joy.

Ferndale’s flair for fashion was second to none—she always looked as though she had stepped right out of a magazine. But she was even more excited to tell you what a bargain she had gotten on each carefully selected piece. Her sharp eye for deals and impeccable taste became a signature part of who she was. And, of course, her vibrant sense of humor and infectious laugh made her the life of every gathering, whether it was a family holiday or simply a casual day with friends.

Her love for getting everyone together for holidays was legendary, and she delighted in cooking for her large family. From her days working out at the Town North YMCA for over 40 years to her lively conversations with friends at the "round table," Ferndale found joy in community and connection.

She was preceded in death by her husband Ted, her parents, Uly and Claudia Clifford, and her brothers, Robert and Harry Clifford.

Ferndale is survived by her six daughters, Claudia Fernandez (Fernando), Andra Williams (Ralph), Laura Dell, Tracey Horton (Bill), Shelley Koeijmans (John), and Heather McCord (Greg), along with 19 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren.

Her memory will live on in all of us, in the faith she instilled, the love she shared, and the legacy of strength, style, and joy she left behind.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 8th, at Calvary Hill at 5:30, with a rosary at 6:30pm. The funeral mass will be at St. Rita Catholic Church on Wednesday, October 9th, at 11:30am.