Obituary

Roger Joel Clifton, 64, passed away unexpectedly on February 21, 2026. Roger was born in Danville, Virginia on March 29, 1961 and was the youngest son of the late R.L. Clifton, Jr. and Mary Jo McLean Clifton.

Roger had many loves in his life: His Lord, his family, his church, his woodworking, his photography and his cars. He especially enjoyed it when any of them were held outside.

Roger’s love for the outdoors began as a Scout in Troop 389 where he attained the rank of Eagle Scout. Along with his brother, Robert, they shared many adventures with their Dad as Scoutmaster. In 1982, Roger and a friend completed a 525-mile trek of the Appalachian Trail starting in Springer Mountain, Georgia and ending in Groseclose, Virginia averaging 14.5 miles daily. While living in Danville, Roger spent summers as a counselor at Camp Hat Creek in Brookneal, Virginia. After graduating from Forestry at Dabney S. Lancaster Community College, Roger worked as an Interpreter for Douthat State Park in Millboro, Virginia, First Landing State Park in Virginia Beach and Myrtle Beach State Park. He was scheduled to retire on April 1st after 32 years of service with Chesterfield County.

Roger had many passions that showcased his artistic skills. He inherited the love of woodworking from his father, never turning down the offer of any piece of wood or abandoned furniture that could be repurposed or painted. His photography captured beautiful scenes especially those of country churches and covered bridges. His love for vintage cars finds roots in his parents’ 1957 Rambler, driving many versions of them from his teenage years to present. His restoration of two he named “Silver Streak,” and “Miss Lillian” brought him such joy.

Roger never met a stranger, only people who were soon to become friends. Regardless of where he was or who he met, he was always able to find a shared connection. Visiting with others, whether it was on a front porch or on Facebook were times he greatly treasured. He was the family historian who could effortlessly playback detailed memories from any gathering over his entire lifetime. He cherished his Scottish roots and was even brave enough to sport a kilt from his family’s Tartan.

While in Danville, Roger was a member of the former Shelton Memorial Presbyterian Church. He transferred his membership to Chester Presbyterian Church in 1986, where he was ordained as a Deacon in 1988, and as an Elder in 1993. He served the chancel choir, bell choir, and taught confirmation class. He loved his Lord and his church family. It was there that he met the love of his life, Karen.

As the song goes, “when you get a choice to sit it out or dance. I hope you dance.” Roger answered that call with every fiber of his being. He lived, he loved, he laughed. He made our lives richer because of it.

Roger is survived by his wife, Karen of 19 years, his stepchildren Eric Ball (Carrie), Ashley Brown (Jasen), Sarah Rhea (Matt), five grandchildren, one on the way, one great grandchild and his brother, Robert Clifton (Kim) of Danville.

A celebration of life will be held at Chester Presbyterian Church, 3424 W Hundred Rd, Chester, VA 23831, on Saturday, February 28th at 2 PM. The family will receive visitors prior to the service beginning at 1 PM.

In remembrance of Roger’s life and love, the family asks that any charitable donations be made to Chester Presbyterian Church.