Connie L. Clifford

October 27, 1946 - March 1, 2017 Connie, beloved mother, grandmother, mentor and friend went home to be with the Lord, on Wednesday, March 1, 2017 in Merced, California. Born in the cold city of Morris, Minnesota, Connie was the second of three daughters born to Tolleman and Luella Gorham. She happily married Johnny Lee Clifford on July 17, 1987 in El Dorado, South Lake Tahoe. He passed away on January 24, 2007 after 20 years of marriage. Connie is survived by her mother, Luella, her sister, Mary Ann Douglass, her six children: Deann Sufuentes, David Thorpe, Cynthia Cook, Donna Lawry, Joshua Thurman, and Rebecca Abarca, her two step-children: Jonell Clifford and David Clifford, her two sons-in-law and her two daughters-in-law. She also took great pride in her 25 grandchildren, 1 great granddaughter, and great grandchild on the way. While being a single mother of her 6 children, Connie put herself through school to earn her nursing degree and build a better life for her and her beautiful children. Using her struggle and accomplishments, she encouraged and supported many in their pursuit of higher education, changing countless lives. Connie worked as a nurse and clinical manager for Mercy Medical Center in Merced for 31 years. For her family, Connie defined what it means to be self-sacrificing, strong and passionate in all pursuits. She fervently and relentlessly loved others, regardless of their background or position in life, opening her home and heart to many over the years. Connie spread her love fishing and camping by spending summers making memories with her family. She also enjoyed her retirement by crocheting, gardening, and all things Disney. Please join us in a celebration of Connie's life that will take place on March 17, 2017 from 12-4 pm at the Fish and Game building at Yosemite Lake in Merced.