Raymond Jay Clifton

Raymond Jay Clifton Jr. went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ at 3:38 pm, Friday, January 24th at Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, OH.

My Eternal Love, we will be together again. This heart shattering earthly separation is only temporary. Revelation 21:4

Raymond, also known as JRay or RJ, served in the United States Marines from 1969 until 1971.

JRay was a wonderful entertainer. He brought joy to many people with his music in Akron, Ohio and several other cities and states. He was a dynamic one man show but also played in bands such as Green Blossom Special, Brigid’s Cross and Callahan O’ Connor. He was a vocalist, played guitar and 12-string guitar with a Johnny Cash style, harmonica, keyboard and had many other musical talents. He was an eloquent and creative wordsmith and composer. He entertained with all his heart and soul, rocking the house and raising up the spectators. He enjoyed bringing out the best of his fellow musicians and friends on and off the stage. In fact, this is what he preferred.

He was a self-taught man in music and in life. His passion and discipline for the pursuit of knowledge was inspiring. He had many passions and careers, giving them all one hundred percent. Best of all, he was a loving husband and best friend to Lisa. He suffered in pain for several years before his passing but was always optimistic, never complaining. He always had a smile for people. He had the biggest heart, loved animals and adored his pets, Sadie and Twoder. He loved Jesus and always tried to think the best of people.

RJ was born in Grinnell, Iowa on December 28, 1951. He served as an altar boy growing up in church and knew the Lord throughout his life.

RJ leaves behind his wife of 25 years, Lisa {Rauch} Clifton of Akron, OH.

RJ was preceded in death by his father, Raymond Clifton Sr. of Grinell, Iowa, his mother, Margaret Marie Pabst, his step-father, Robert A. Pabst, and his brother-in-law, Paul Clarkston, all of Tyler, Texas.

RJ is survived by his son, Christopher Clifton and granddaughter, Savannah Clifton, both of Indiana. RJ is also survived by his sister, Penny Clarkston of Tyler Texas; nephew, Skyler Clarkston and his wife, Katie Clarkston and their family of Tyler, Texas. He is also survived by his brother Dr. David L. Clifton of Edgewater, Colorado; his brother and sister-in-law, Doug and Sara Pabst of Pomona, Kansas; Kenny and Angela Pabst and nephew Spencer Pabst of Topeka, Kansas. His sister and brother-in-law, Bobbie and Mike Wheeler and nephews Colton and Justin all of Mount Tyler, Texas also survive him.

RJ always enjoyed playing guitar, singing at family Christmas in Lyndon, Kansas. RJ was well known for singing “House of the Rising Son” with his band in Rayne, Louisiana. RJ also did great Elvis Presley impersonations. He had a great sense of humor and knack for making people laugh. RJ will be missed and was loved by all that met and knew him.

The Joy of the Lord is my strength. Nehemiah 8:10

A military service will be planned for a later date, followed by a celebration of life. In lieu of flowers, donations in RJ's name are suggested to David Clifton Ministries Inc. P.O. Box 140340, Edgewater, CO 80214, or the local veteran support charity of your choice. To leave a special message for RJ's family, please visit the guest book below.