Ronald "Ronnie" Gray Clifton

Ronald “Ronnie” Clifton, 69, of Rural Hall transitioned peacefully to his heavenly home on Tuesday, June 14, 2023. Ronnie retired from RJ Reynolds in 2014 after 42 years of service. He was a faithful member of New Hope United Methodist Church where he loved cooking his “famous” chicken stew for the annual Trunk or Treat Chicken Stew. He loved NASCAR and especially Bowman Gray Stadium racing. His passion was being crew chief for his cousin #83 Tim Brown until his health no longer permitted. He also loved hunting, fishing, trips to Holden Beach with his wife, and spending time with family. He was very thankful for family and friends who supported him through this journey. Don’t be sad that I died, be happy that I lived. A special thanks to Dr. Garrett Sherwood at Derrick Davis Cancer Center, the Novant ICU unit 2 team including Dr. Jodi Lewis and Dr. Adam Wells for the care given to Ronnie. He is survived by his loving wife, Anita Clifton of the home; daughter Angela Jackson (Dave) of King; two sons, Andy Clifton (Windy) of East Bend and Michael Clifton (Rachel) of Boone; 15 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; mother, Ann Slate of King; mother in-law, Sunny Willard of King; sister and brother in-law, Michelle and Larry Snider; step-brother, Kent Slate (Christina) of King; and several aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews. A funeral service will be conducted 1:30 PM Friday, June 16, 2023, at New Hope United Methodist Church with Megan Boyles officiating. There will be a private family graveside service. The family will receive friends from 12:00 PM until 1:00 PM Friday, June 16, 2023, at New Hope United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The Derrick Davis Cancer Center, 3333 Silas Creek Parkway, Winston-Salem, NC, 27103 and The Clifton Endowed Scholarship Fund at Appalachian State University, Advancement Services, ASU Box 32014, Boone, NC, 28608. “I have fought the hard fight. I have finished the race. I have kept the faith.” 2 Timothy 4 7-8.