Charles W. Clifton

1946 - 2018

Charles W. Clifton ARLINGTON--Charles W. Clifton, 72, of Arlington passed away Thursday, Sept. 27, 2018, with his family at his side. CELEBRATION OF LIFE: Charles' life will be celebrated at 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 6, at the Cendera Center, Fort Worth. MEMORIALS: In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Charles' memory to Covenant Classical School of Fort Worth or Easterseals North Texas. Charles was born June 15, 1946, in Cleburne, Texas, the son of Clovis and Minnie Brand Clifton. Charles married Jill Nichols Collins Nov. 23, 1991. Charles grew up playing most every sport Rio Vista High School offered at the time. He was determined his athleticism would help him get a college education. His senior year, May, 1964, he won first place in the Long Jump at the State UIL Track Meet setting a record jump of 24'6" that still stands today, 54 years later. Charles was offered a full scholarship to the University of Texas Austin graduating in 1969. His love for sports continued after graduation. Charles was hired as head track coach and assistant coach for multiple other sports. While there, he earned a master's degree from the University of North Texas. His second career began in 1982 working for then Chapparal Steel, Midlothian, Texas, retiring in March, 2018 from Gerdau Steel with 36 years of service. In his spare time, Charles loved traveling, photography, sports, and astronomy. He loved doing Saturday and Sunday brunch with Jill and any of his children and grands who were available. He enjoyed attending their activities as well. Charles supported charities to raise funds for American Cancer Society and affiliates, Easterseals North Texas, and the Longhorn Foundation. SURVIVORS: Charles is survived by his wife, Jill; children, Bill and wife, Nicole, Andy and wife, Amy, Annajane, Lance Collins and wife, Francine, Rachel Collins, Brett Collins; and 13 grandchildren.