Clifford D. Vail

Clifford Dee Vail passed away, surrounded by his family, on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, at the age of 71.
Born on August 21, 1954, in Long Beach, California, Clifford was the beloved son of Jack Edward and Naomi (Blue) Vail. From an early age, he displayed a keen analytical mind and a natural aptitude for problem-solving-traits that would shape both his education and professional life.
Clifford graduated from Millikan High School in Long Beach, CA in 1972 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering in 1980, followed by a Master's in Business Administration with a concentration in Corporate Finance in 1985, both from the University of Missouri in Columbia.
Throughout his distinguished career, he held the positions of Environmental Engineer with Chevron Petrochemicals, Senior Plant Engineer with Buckman Laboratories, and Engineering Manager with ISK Magnetics. Clifford ultimately retired as Production Superintendent at Vanderbilt Chemical Corporation in Murray, KY, after 20 years of dedicated service to the company.
Clifford's professional life was marked by remarkable dedication and innovation. One of his proudest professional accomplishments was the development of a process that advanced lubricant additive technology. In recognition of this achievement, Cliff, along with several coworkers, was awarded a patent for this process in 2007. His work stands as a lasting testament to his curiosity, perseverance, and unwavering dedication to excellence.
A man of deep faith, Clifford was an avid reader of the Bible and especially cherished the Old Testament. One of his most beloved passages was the 23rd Psalm, which offered him comfort and guidance throughout his life.
David declares, The Lord is my shepherd.
A Psalm of David.
1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
Clifford was preceded in death by his parents, Jack Edward and Naomi (Blue) Vail; and a sister Linda Elaine Vail.
Clifford married Anita McBride in 1976, the marriage later ended in divorce in 2011. From this union, he is survived by his son, Chadwell (Audrey) Vail and three granddaughters, Rebekah, Lily, and Miriam. He is also survived by his wife Nidea (Gardner) Vail, whom he married in 2014, daughters Maria (Jacob) Gardner and Stefani (Ethan) Farley, and a grandson, Jacoby.
In honor of Cliff's wishes, no public visitation or formal funeral services will be held. Interment will be in the Kenyon Cemetery in Delta, Missouri, at a later date.
Blalock-Coleman Funeral Home & Cremation Services is privileged to be entrusted with the care of Mr. Vail. Please share your messages of condolence with the family by signing his virtual guestbook at www.blalockcolemanfuneralhome.com.