Barbara Sue Clifton (72) of Louisville

Barbara Sue Clifton, 72, of Louisville, Illinois passed away peacefully at 8:27 am Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at her home with her loving family by her side.

Barbara was born on May 19, 1951 in Flora, Illinois the daughter of Vernon and Allene (Colclasure) Wendling. She married Robert “Terry” Clifton on June 27, 1970 at the St. John’s Lutheran Church, rural Louisville and they shared 53 years of marriage. Barb's academic pursuit culminated in a Master's Degree in Education, which she put it to use in the North Clay School District. Her deep commitment to learning shone brightly in her role as a Reading Recovery teacher for 1st grade students. Barb's gentle guidance opened the world of words to countless young minds, fostering a love for reading that her students would carry with them long after leaving her classroom. Barb devoted herself to the St. John's Lutheran Church, where she was not just a member but a life source of the congregation. Her faith was her compass, guiding her through life's challenges and celebrations. Barb's involvement with the St. John's Lutheran Church Ladies Aid and the Louisville American Legion Ladies Auxiliary showcased her dedication to fellowship and service. Through these organizations, she touched many lives, offering support, warmth, and a ready smile to all she encountered. Beyond her professional and community engagement, Barb's passions were many and varied. An avid reader herself, she found solace and adventure within the pages of books, a testament to her belief in the power of stories. Her hands were rarely idle, as she loved crafting, creating beautiful pieces that served as tangible expressions of her love and creativity. Barb's green thumb brought beauty to the world through her love of raising flowers. Roses, her favorite, bloomed under her tender care, adding splashes of color and joy to her home and garden. Decorating her home for the holidays was more than a task for Barb; it was a celebration of the seasons and an invitation to make memories with her family. Family was the cornerstone of Barb's life. She cherished the time spent with her loved ones, especially reveling in the accomplishments and milestones of her grandchildren. Attending their events was not merely a pastime but a source of immense pride and happiness for Barb. Her presence in the stands, her cheers, and her unwavering support were gifts that her family will hold dear forever.

Barb is survived by her husband: Terry Clifton of Louisville; her children: Craig (Christina) Clifton of Louisville, Jennifer (Chad) Iffert of Louisville; grandchildren: Austin Iffert, Erica (Lawson) Britton, Kylie Iffert, Ashley (Kyle) McKnelly, Evan Clifton; 1 great granddaughter: Baylor Britton with another due in August; her brothers: Gary (Jeanine) Wendling of Altamont, Vernon Dwaine (Kitty) Wendling of Effingham, Richard (Sara) Wendling of Mason, Don (Kathy) Wendling of Louisville; brother-in-law: Jon Clifton of West Salem, Illinois; sister-in-law: Ann (Max) Whitehead of Oxford, Mississippi; and many nieces, nephews, and good friends.

Barb was preceded in death by her parents; and father and mother-in-law: Riley and Martha Clifton.

Funeral services to celebrate Barb’s life will be held at 10:30 am Monday, February 5, 2024 at the St. John’s Lutheran Church, rural Louisville with Rev. Steven Becker officiating. Burial will follow at the Orchard Hill Cemetery, Louisville. Visitation will be held on Sunday evening at the church where friends may call from 5:00 to 8:00 pm and then on Monday morning from 9:30 to 10:30 am. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Barb’s memory to St. John’s Lutheran Church, Clay County Hospice, or the Louisville American Legion Ladies Auxiliary and will be accepted through the funeral home. The McGriff Funeral Home in Louisville is entrusted with the care and arrangements. To sign the guestbook online or share a memory of Barb, please visit by clicking here.