Connie Lee Clifton

Connie was born on May 24, 1954 to Milton and Mary Avakian in Fresno, California, where she lived her entire life.

Connie's life was a testament to love, compassion, and dedication. She married Steve Clifton, and together they raised their children Kevin Clifton and Kelly Osterman. Connie embraced her role as a mother-in-law to Vanessa Clifton and Jeff Osterman, and cherished every moment with her grandchildren, Holly and Landon Osterman.

Connie was a special education teacher for over 30 years in Fresno Unified School District, where her passion for teaching and her unwavering commitment to her students made a lasting impact. She was not just a teacher but a beacon of hope and inspiration to countless students and their families.

Connie was the beloved sister of Cindy, Doug and Susan Avakian, and her presence will be profoundly missed by her siblings, with whom she shared an unbreakable bond. She was also a favorite aunt to Lauren Grady and Natalie Thompson, to whom she was like a second mother. Her life was enriched by countless friends, including her three best, lifelong friends, Pam Buckles, Debbie Oneal, and Janet Sunderland. Their adventures and shared memories will forever hold a special place in their hearts.

Above all, Connie loved her family and friends with all her heart. She was an amazing loving mother and wife, and also a loving sister, whose legacy of kindness, resilience, and love will live on in those who knew her. Connie's remarkable spirit, her laughter, and her ability to make everyone around her feel loved and valued will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Connie was proceeded in death by Milton, Mary and Ruth Avakian.

A Memorial Service will be held for Connie on Saturday, April 27, 2024 at 2:30PM at Whitehurst Sullivan Burns and Blair Funeral Home, 836 E. Nees Ave., Fresno, California 93720 where friends and family are invited to honor her incredible legacy.

Connie Lee Clifton's light will forever shine in the lives she touched.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.whitehurstsullivan.com for the Clifton family.