Clifford McElmurry

Clifford McElmurry Battle Creek Clifford Melvin McElmurry, 64, of Battle Creek, MI, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Monday, November 3, 2008 in Battle Creek, MI. He was born March 16, 1944 in Pulaski, IL the son of Sherman Lee McElmurry and Odessa (King) McElmurry. Clifford was a parts driver for the city of Battle Creek for 30 years, retiring in 1997. Before that he was a baker for Godde's Bakery. Clifford had served during the Vietnam Era in the U.S. Navy as a Commissary man Petty Officer 3rd Class, and was honorably discharged in 1965. He married Pearline Graham in Battle Creek, in 1967; however she passed away on April 17, 1985. Clifford is survived by two daughters: Loistine "Lois" Graham of Battle Creek, Theresa and Cleotis Lawson of Roxboro, NC; two grandchildren: Michael Henry of Indianapolis, IN, Havilland-Seona Lawson of Roxboro, NC; one great-grandson: Khalil Smith of St. Louis, MO; six brothers: Robert McElmurry of Milwaukee, WI, Carlos and Nora McElmurry of Pulaski, IL, and Darrell and Tina Brooks, Phillip Brooks, Timothy Brooks, Thomas Brooks, all of Battle Creek; two sisters: Betty Newton of Stuart, FL, Janel K. Brooks-McElmurry of Battle Creek; and two special friends: Preston "Wes" Watkins, Jr. and Furhonda Hale, both of Battle Creek. He was preceded in death by his wife, Pearline McElmurry (1985); his father, Sherman Lee McElmurry; his mother, Odessa Brooks (June 1, 2004); and three brothers: Leon McElmurry, Rufus Harris (August 30, 1996), and Theodore Brooks. He graduated from Battle Creek Central High School in 1962 where he played football. He was a member of the Elks #951. Clifford enjoyed cooking, watching sports on television, playing cards, and enjoyed spending time with his friends and relatives. Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. Thursday at the Bachman Hebble Funeral Service. Graveside funeral services with military honors with Pastor Leodis Graham officiating will be 11:30 a.m. Friday at the Fort Custer National Cemetery. Memorial tributes may be made to American Diabetes Association. Arrangements by the Bachman Hebble Funeral Service, a member by invitation Selected Independent Funeral Homes. (269)965-5145