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Otis J. Clifton, federal game warden

January 10, 2017

Otis J. Clifton, 84, lifelong resident of Milton, passed away peacefully Monday, Jan. 9, 2017, at the Delaware Hospice Center in Milford.

Otis was born in Milton, son of the late Otis Henry Clifton and Alice (Short) Clifton. When Otis was 18 months old his mother passed away, and he was raised by his aunt and uncle, Adolphus and Julia Parsons.

In his early years, he was a dairy and grain crop farmer until his family's farm land was purchased by the Department of the Interior. Otis then worked at the Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge for 32 years, and served as federal game warden for 25 years of those years, retiring in 1999.

He attended the Broadkill School during his primary years and then Milton High School. Otis was an honorary member of the Broadkill Sportsman's Club. He was also a member of the Delaware Farm Bureau from 1958 until his death.

Otis enjoyed hunting (especially rabbit and duck), fishing, being outdoors, watching Western movies and the cartoon Roadrunner. He loved spending time with his family, especially his grandsons' school and sports activities. Otis enjoyed breakfast at M&H Restaurant and some days, lunch as well. He also attended Crossroad Community Church.

In addition to his parents, and his aunt and uncle who raised him, Otis is preceded in death by his wife of 52 years, Betty May (Holston) Clifton in 2005; and a sister, Gladys Carmean.

He is survived by his daughter Terri Clifton and a grandson, Rhett Clifton Malone, both of Milton; a sister, Ida Faucett of Long Neck; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family and friends.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Otis' niece Shirley Holston, and nephew Bob Carmean and his wife Dianne for their continued care and devoted support to Otis.

A funeral service will be held Friday, Jan. 13, at 11 a.m., at Crossroad Community Church, 20684 State Forest Road, Georgetown, with visitation after 10 a.m. Burial will be in Henlopen Memorial Park, Milton.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Crossroad Community Church, or Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963.

Arrangements in the care of Short Funeral Services, Milton.

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