Clifford Lauderdale Sr.

Clifford Lauderdale, Sr.
Clifford Lauderdale, Sr., age 90, passed away peacefully on November 22, 2025. A devoted husband, father, veteran, and cherished member of his community, Clifford lived a life marked by honor, service, and unwavering compassion.
Clifford proudly served in the United States Army for 20 years, achieving the rank of Sergeant. His dedication included two tours in Vietnam, where he led with courage, integrity, and commitment to those he served alongside. During his military career, he earned one of the highest Medals of Honor, a testament to his bravery and extraordinary service. His years in uniform reflected his deep sense of duty and lifelong desire to protect and uplift others.
After retiring from the Army, Clifford continued serving others at Rush Hospital, working in patient transport. He was known for his calm presence, warm smile, and the kindness he showed to each patient he encountered.
Clifford remained an active and respected member of his community. He was honored to serve as the Grand Marshal of the Shorewood Fest Parade, a role that brought him great pride. He also devoted countless hours volunteering at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, where he honored fellow veterans with dignity and heartfelt respect.
Clifford enjoyed spending time with friends and family at the clubhouse. He loved bowling, bocce ball, fast track, group solitaire, and bingo-activities that brought him joy, laughter, and fellowship. His warm spirit and friendly nature made him a favorite companion in every game he played.
Clifford leaves to cherish his memory his devoted spouse of 41 years, Doris Lauderdale; his children, Kathleen Lauderdale- Black, Dolly Lauderdale, Clifford (Michele) Lauderdale,Jr., and Robin Lauderdale- Phillips; and he is reunited in eternal peace with his daughter, Debbie Lauderdale, who preceded him in death. He is lovingly remembered by his bonus children, Karla (Mark) Hall, Kevin (Jahneice) Scott, Keith (Takia) Scott, and Kirk (Phyllis) Scott; his sisters, Lorraine Hawkins and Lillian Lauderdale; and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews who will forever carry his love and guidance in their hearts.
Clifford's legacy is one of devotion, resilience, and generosity. He will be remembered for the stories he shared, the service he rendered, and the kindness he extended to everyone around him.
Visitation for Clifford Lauderdale, Sr. will be held Friday, November 28, 2025 the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black Rd., Joliet, IL, from 9:00 a.m. until the time of Funeral Service at 10:30 a.m. Interment will follow 1:00 p.m. at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, IL.
The family has requested to live stream the services of their loved one on Friday, November 28, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. Please click on this link (https://youtube.com/live/sJF8WpjXhyU?feature=share) and follow the instructions to show your support for them at a time when you cannot be physically present, but your thoughts, prayers and connection are.
For more information, please call 815-741-5500, or visit his Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com, where you can share a favorite memory or leave an online condolence.