James Floyd Clifton's Obituary
of Dallas was born March 8, 1925 near Emory, Texas and died January 13, 2009 of a very courageous battle with rare blood disease, Polycythemia Vera. He is survived by his wife, Jean and sons, Charles and Stephen all of Dallas. Jim had 11 brothers and one sister of which Howard, Doy, Quillie (J.R.) Joe, Ollie Ray and his parents Robert (Bob), Zella Marzee Ratliff preceded him in death. He is survived by Wayne, Boots, Raymond, Fred, Bobby, sister Odessa and many nieces and nephews. Many called him by his childhood nickname “Buck”. He attended SMU prior to joining the army where he served in Okinawa, Japan in WWII. After the service he worked at Sanger Brothers in the carpet department and met his wife Jean. They married in 1948. In 1957 Jim and Jean opened Clifton Carpets on Oak Lawn. Jim loved the carpet business almost as much as anything in the world. His personality, wit, and charm, were well known in the industry where he mentored many and made numerous friends. He was called “Gentleman Jim”, for good reason. He could tell a fine joke, loved to laugh and was a great dancer. He also loved their country home in Rains County, East Texas. He loved his garden, lakes and pastures, especially mowing on one of his tractors. He was an avid sports fan and reader. He will be missed by many and we are sorry he had suffer so with his illness, especially the last 6 months but he was always optimistic, stubborn and proud to the very end. In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to the local SPCA or an animal shelter of your choice. Visitation will be from 6:00 to 8:00p.m. Thursday, January 15 at Restland Funeral Home. A graveside will be at 1:30 Friday January 16 in Restland Memorial Park.
What’s your fondest memory of James?
What’s a lesson you learned from James?
Share a story where James' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with James you’ll never forget.
How did James make you smile?