Dorothy L. Clifton

Born on July 30, 1939, in Jersey City, NJ, she spent her formative years in Union City, NJ, with her loving mother, Edith, her Grandfather Angelo, and her big brother Peter. In 1959, she married her then-husband Gene and relocated to Toms River in 1967 to continue raising their growing family. She moved one last time in 1990 to Jackson, NJ to spend her third chapter on "God's Littlest Acre".

She is predeceased by her mother, Edith Repoli; her brother, Peter Spiotto; and her longtime partner, Ed Wallsten. She is survived by her children: Guy Clifton and his wife Lori, Lynn Bottone and her husband Michael, Gail Clifton, Scott Clifton and his wife Bridget, and Jennifer Clifton; and her grandchildren, Anthony Sicurella, Rachael Bottone, and Alexis Bottone.

An avid lover of nature, she spent every moment she could outdoors, taking long walks, talking with neighbors, and exploring her surroundings ~ she always found something new to appreciate even on the same path she walked for decades. She cherished her time at the beach collecting shells, driftwood, and sea glass. She was an avid reader, often reading several books at once. She was also a gifted poet, writer, painter, designer, stained glass artist, gardener, jewelry designer and maker, cook, yodeler, organ player, and a kind-hearted friend to many.

But more than her talents and interests, it was her heart that made her unforgettable. She was a kind, genuine, and steadfast soul. She never turned her back on us even when the winds were bitter. Her wisdom, her emotional support, and her ability to listen without judgment carried us through countless challenges, including the final one she faced.

She dedicated herself to caring for her family, including her mother and brother during their illnesses, and was a source of wisdom and emotional support to all who knew her. Her courage, generosity, and strength will be deeply missed.

We want to acknowledge her life-long friendship with Marty, who she could always laugh with and reminisce with about their countless adventures as kids, young working professionals, wives, and mothers. It made our hearts smile that you always laughed together. She loved you so much.

We would also like to express our thankfulness to her other friends and neighbors who always looked out for her, but did even more during this final chapter. Miss Linda, her angel, Mary and Tooie, and Michele and Joe. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you.

Mom, you were braver than you ever gave yourself credit for and in these final months, we witnessed that bravery in its purest form. We will always miss you. We will never replace you. And we will carry your strength, love, and your spirit with us for the rest of our lives.

It was our honor to care for you.