Perry McArthur Clifton

Perry McArthur Clifton, 63, passed away on November 26, 2024, surrounded by the love of his family. Perry was born on November 11, 1961, in Exeter, California, to McArthur and Ida Clifton.

Growing up in California, Perry graduated from Rio Linda Public Schools with the Class of 1980. He furthered his education by attending Lubbock Christian College. Perry’s life was one of adventure, service, and versatility, with a career path that showcased his many talents and interests. Throughout his life, Perry worked as a TV producer, traded currencies, worked in a nuclear power plant, chased storms, served as a paramedic, and even took on construction projects. However, his longest and most meaningful career was as a house parent alongside his wife, Dana, where they moved across the United States, providing love and guidance to children in their care.

Over the years, Perry and Dana lived in various states, including California, Texas, Arkansas, and New Mexico, before settling in Claremore, Oklahoma, in 2009.

Perry was a man of many passions. He loved cooking, working in his garden, collecting trinkets, and recycling. He was fiercely independent, always doing things on his terms. Perry also enjoyed traveling, with some of his favorite destinations being Yellowstone National Park, Silver Dollar City, and cruises.

Perry met the love of his life, Dana, during the Christmas season. Their connection was instant, and after a short engagement, they married in May of 1982. Together, they built a life centered around faith, family, and service. Perry loved the Lord deeply and served as a deacon at Blue Star Church of Christ. He found his calling in serving the Lord by taking care of children as a house parent, touching countless lives through his work.

Among Perry’s many accomplishments, his proudest role was that of a father and grandfather. He cherished his family and poured his heart into their well-being and happiness.

Perry is preceded in death by his grandparents, Frank and Juanita Clifton and Mike and Nell Cantrell.

He is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Dana; Parents McArthur Clifton and Monett Clifton; his sons, Kyle Clifton and wife Michelle, Blake Clifton and wife Kathy, and Dillon Clifton and wife Rianna; his brother, Rodney Clifton; his sister, Regina Clifton; and his beloved grandchildren, Jaxon Clifton, Maddox Clifton, Jaece Clifton, Jett Clifton, and Halle Clifton.

Perry’s legacy of love, faith, and dedication to his family will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.