Charles Phillip Clifton

March 28, 1948 - February 18, 2021

On February 18, 2021, Charles Phillip Clifton passed away at 72 years of age, and the world lost a great man. He was born on March 28, 1948, in Smithfield, NC, to Ralph Clifton and Edna Benson Clifton, who preceded him in death. He was also predeceased by siblings, Alice Clifton Honeycutt, Leon Clifton, and Billie Clifton. He is survived by the love of his life, his wife of 20 years, Linda Swift Clifton, his daughter Laura Clifton (Renee Sargent), as well as “daughter” Joy Hill (Scott), and “son” Paul Deel (Peggy). He was loved as “Papa Charles” by his grandsons, Joseph Lawson, who was his constant helpmate, Dustin Lawson, and Samuel Deel. He also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, family members and close friends, whom he loved dearly. Charles was a very caring man with a great sense of humor. He enjoyed cooking NC Barbecue for friends and family, being a NASCAR fan, cars, Sheltie dogs, and going out to eat, where he liked interacting with his favorite waitresses. He also enjoyed being an active member of Sandy Shores Baptist Church, where he had a great many friends, and he served in the United States Army. Charles was an interesting man with a big heart, who made fast friends wherever he went and he will be missed by many. There will be no memorial service at this time, but arrangements are to be determined for a graveside service at a later date, in Benson, NC. Wrenn-Yeatts Westover Chapel is respectfully serving the Clifton family.