Clarence R. Radcliff, 89 of Crawfordsville, passed away peacefully Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at home, surrounded by his family.
He was born Nov. 24, 1935, to Robert “Gene” and Mary (Bishop) Radcliff in Indianapolis. Clarence married Phyllis Morris on Nov. 30, 1958, in the Wabash College Chapel, spending over 57 loving years together until her passing in 2016.
He was a graduate of Ladoga High School, Class of 1954. Following graduation, Clarence joined the United States Air Force, proudly serving his country for over three years. He worked briefly at Raybestos and Midstates and then was a Case Decorator at RR Donnelley’s for over 30 years, retiring in 1996. Clarence was a member of the First Baptist Church for over 67 years, formerly serving as a Deacon and a Trustee. He loved serving God on Mission trips, particularly the Dominican Republic, where he visited nine years in a row.
Clarence was known for his clocks in the house, tinkering and fixing cuckoo, grandfather and German clocks. He enjoyed watching professional sports but especially enjoyed attending sporting events for his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Clarence and Phyllis loved to travel, either day trips on his motorcycle or international vacations. He loved his family more than anything and had a special bond with each newborn as the “baby whisperer.”
Clarence is survived by his children, Bill Radcliff, Randy (Lori) Radcliff, Lynda Radcliff, Rick (Kitty) Radcliff and Brenda (Chris) Barnes; nine grandchildren, Erin, Jeff, Rebekah, Trey, Drew, Levi, Kelley, Tucker and Aniah; seven great-grandchildren, Rylan, Reyde, Kamryn, Kearston, Jocelyn, Lincoln and Kalana; one great-great-grandchild on the way; brother Bill (Mary Lou) Zachary; and several nieces, nephews and extended family.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Phyllis; step-mother Eleanor Radcliff; brothers, Bishop (Jo) and Rawley (Emmagene) Radcliff; and daughter-in-law Shelley.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, April 23 from noon until the time of the service at 2 p.m. at First Baptist Church, 1905 Lebanon Road, Crawfordsville. Burial will follow in Oak Hill North Cemetery, Crawfordsville, with military honors provided by the United States Air Force and American Legion Post 72.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Clarence’s memory to First Baptist Church or Huntington’s Disease Society of America, 505 Eighth Ave., Suite 902, New York, NY, 10018. Share memories and condolences at www.SandersFuneralCare.com.
