John Howard Clifton
August 5, 1953 ~ September 3, 2023
Resided in:
Acton, Maine
In Loving Memory of John Clifton
John Clifton, a beloved husband, father, brother, and priest, passed away in the afternoon of September 3rd, surrounded by family, at the age of 70 at Wentworth Douglas Hospital in Dover, New Hampshire. He leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and a profound passion for learning.
Born on August 5th, 1953, John was a dedicated husband to his beloved wife, Robin Clifton, for nearly 40 years, and together they raised seven children: Jeanne, Katie, Jacob, Abbie, Ashley, and Justin. His eldest son, Nicky, predeceased him.
John's dedication to his faith was unwavering. He served as a priest of the Church of the CEC, providing guidance and spiritual support to his congregation for many years. His commitment to his faith touched the lives of countless individuals.
As priest and pastor Fr. John lived the gospel he preached. His life and ministry was dedicated to bringing the presence of Christ to all, especially those with the greatest needs.
In addition to his role as a priest, John was the driving force behind the Prince of Peace homeschooling enrichment program, where he nurtured the minds and hearts of young learners, instilling in them a love for education and a sense of purpose.
John was a dedicated scholar who held a degree from Moody Bible Institute, a Bachelor of Arts in History from Trinity College, and a Masters in Church History from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. His passion for history and theology enriched his life and the lives of those around him.
Throughout his life, John was an avid reader with an insatiable appetite for knowledge. His favorite genres included fantasy, science fiction, and historical fiction, and he often shared his passion for these books with his family and friends.
John is survived by his wife, Robin, six children, his sisters Jean and Becky, and his beloved grandchildren: Richard, Peyton, and Ava. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.
A memorial service will be held in honor of John Clifton at Rise Church (formerly Church of the Holy Spirit) in Portland, Maine on Saturday, September 16th at 2pm, where family and friends will gather to celebrate his remarkable life and the lasting impact he had on all of us. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the African Mission Fund.
https://www.cec-na.org/.../cec-missions-and-development/
John Clifton's legacy of love, faith, and a thirst for knowledge will continue to inspire and guide those he leaves behind. May he rest in peace, knowing that his life touched so many with warmth and wisdom.
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Well, I met him when I was 7 years old. He came to my foster home to meet me and see if I was a good fit for his family. I made maple syrup snowcones for him and his wife. I joined their family officially less than a year later. That was 17+ years ago, and I wouldn’t change a single thing. I love you dad ❤️
As the head of the household — he was very involved with each family member.John was very kind and gentle in which ever aspect of life that one would deal with him.
I was privileged to meet John when working with his son. He was a Shepard to the lovely family that he had with his wife, Robin. I extend my deepest sympathy to each family member as you face the days ahead without John there, but do remember the many things he taught each of you while you had him with you.
We met Father and Mrs Clifton’s atCharismatic Healing Services at our Parish Holy Family in Sanford, we were part of the prayer team.. Mrs Clifton, we are so very sorry for your loss. Your husband was such a good man and we were so glad you joined us in prayers.
Doug and Claire Buck
John is my older brother and I will always remember his kindness. Even as a little kid, John was caring. When he was 10 and I was six, he got to go to the county fair with a friend. He was so sad I couldn’t come along, that he used his lunch money and didn’t eat so he could buy me a stuffed animal. It will always be a treasured memory for me.
John was my cousin and growing up we were very close as we both read constantly and frequently shared books. He was always kind, and had a good sense of humor. I loved his excitement when he had a new book to share, and his openness to new ideas. He is the one who introduced me to Lord of the rings and many other writers. I will miss him. Kathy Clifton McFate
Dad created a story for us when we were kids that he always wanted to get published. It was about a magic dollhouse where the toys came to life every night and went on adventures. It was magical. I’ll miss your stories, Dad. <3
John was twelve years old when I was born. He was the best big brother! When I was very little, I used to run down the block to meet him on his way home from his paper route. He would put me in his paper-delivery bag and carry me home. When I was about six or seven years old, he taught me how to wash dishes. He pulled a chair up to the sink so I could reach and helped me put an apron on. He showed me how to put the flatware in the dish drainer, “like with like,” because “the spoons and forks and knives liked to each be with their family members.” He wrote letters to me regularly while he attended Moody Bible Institute in Chicago in the early seventies because I missed him so much. He introduced me to Tolkien, T.S. Eliot, C.S. Lewis, and dozens of other writers and poets when I was young and helped to spark and shape my lifelong love of reading. We shared a love for chicken liver rumaki from Dragon Inn Chinese restaurant in Illinois, as well as many savory dishes from Little Mexico restaurant in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He took me to the Field Museum of Natural History and the Art Institute of Chicago on many occasions and encouraged my interests in art and history. we always had so much fun together! He was the kindest, gentlest, most thoughtful, loving brother that anyone could have, and I will miss him dearly until we meet again.