Walter Joseph Clifford
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Walter Joseph Gifford, 87, passed away peacefully in his sleep on January 29, 2021 in Lynch-burg, Virginia. His wife and three children were by his side as he prepared to meet Jesus face to face.
Born in Amsterdam, NY on the July 4, 1933, he was a proud American and was honored to serve his country in the Army Signal Corp. during the Korean War.
Walter grew up in Broadalbin, NY. He loved playing basketball, boxing, and playing his gui-tar/singing in the school band. He loved spending time outdoors, gardening, camping, and hiking with his family. He married his sweetheart, Doris, on July 30, 1955, and raised their 3 children to be hard working and to love the Lord and their families with all their hearts. He served as a Dea-con, Choir Member, and Bible study teacher at Emmanuel Baptist Church and Perth Bible Church. He was also a Board Member at Sacandaga Bible Conference, where he was known as a godly man, kind to others, and had a fun sense of humor. He impacted the lives of many people as he lived out the Word of God in his life.
Walter retired in 1991 from Contel/GTE Telephone Company in Johnstown, NY, where he served as an engineer. In 1995, Walt and Doris moved to Lynchburg, VA, where he was a mem-ber of Thomas Road Baptist Church and served with the Senior Saints, taught Precept classes, and lead a Bible study at Hillcrest Apartments, where he touched more lives. He was a member of the Logos Sunday School class. Walter was a faithful servant of the Lord Jesus Christ and served Him passionately his whole life. He was loved my many, especially his family.
Walter was preceded in death by his parents Ami and Virginia Gifford, his brothers George Gifford, Harold Gifford, and Jerry Gifford, and great grandson Owen Lewis.
He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Doris Jones Gifford, their children: Gregory Gifford (Carol), Stephen Gifford (Judith), and Constance Daggett (Jon). Grandchildren: Stephenie Shepherd (Daniel), Philip Gifford (Pamela), Elizabeth Lewis (John), Daniel Gifford (Tabitha), Matthew Gifford (Sarah), Cynthia Stuckey (Jacob), and Sarah Glass (Anthony), and 21 great grandchildren.
A Celebration of Walter's life will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday, February 3, 2021 in Pate Chapel at Thomas Road Baptist Church. Visitation will be from 10:00 am - 10:45 am prior to the service. Interment will follow at Fort Hill Memorial Park.
When attending services, please maintain social distancing and wear a mask for everyone's safe-ty. You are encouraged to post a memory, note, or words of condolence to the family by going to the funeral home website at www.whittentimberlake.com.
Whitten Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Timberlake Chapel, is serving the family.