Mark Andrew Clifford

Mark Andrew Clifford, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on November 17, 2023, in Atlanta, Georgia, at the age of 71. He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Annette Clifford; his three children, John Clifford, Mark Clifford (Mike), and Katie Klorfein (Jarred); his three grandchildren, Caiden Clifford, Leo Klorfein, and George Klorfein; his four siblings, John Clifford (Paula), Dee Dee Beard (Larry), Regina Peña (Manuel), and Kevin Clifford; and countless nieces, nephews, and friends.

Born to the late John and Ann Clifford in Coral Gables, Florida on March 4, 1952, and raised in Miami-Dade, Mark graduated from the University of Florida in 1970 with a degree in computer science, which was a new field at the time. Mark always kept up with technology, and he was fascinated by the way things worked and solving problems. He knew more about computers than his children do, and he likely would have used artificial intelligence to write this obituary. Mark was constantly learning and challenging himself. Whether it was building computers and automating his home, brewing the best possible cup of coffee and crafting the perfect cocktail, or cheering on the Atlanta Braves and Florida Gators, Mark was quick to share his passions with those around him.

Mark's intellect was matched only by his warm heart and devotion to his family. Mark and Annette were the love of each other's life, and best friends who celebrated their 40th anniversary this year. They met on a blind date in 1982, were married the next year, and made their home in Atlanta. They were equally happy traveling the country as they were spending an evening together at home.

Mark was a present and devoted father to his three children, to whom he imparted invaluable wisdom, kindness, and a love for learning. He attended every football game, band performance, and school play, set aside college rivalries and proudly celebrated each of his kid's success at the University of Georgia, and cheered on his children as they embarked on their careers in the law enforcement and legal fields. As a grandfather, Mark found profound joy in witnessing the world through the eyes of his three young grandsons. And as a brother, his kindness, humility, and compassion were a source of strength, guidance, and love for his siblings. He will be forever missed, but never forgotten.

A funeral mass in honor of Mark's life will be held at the Catholic Church of St. Ann in Marietta, Georgia on December 7, 2023 at 2:00 pm, where Mark was a parishioner for over 40 years.

Mark was passionate about scientific research and advancement, and so, in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the non-profit organization Fight Colorectal Cancer, https://fightcolorectalcancer.org/tribute-wall/.