May Clifton

1927 - 2018

Ethel May Clifton (nee Richardson) formerly of Hays, went to join her beloved husband GR on Thursday, February 22, 2018 at the age of 90 years.  She passed away in Taber with family at her side. 

 A Celebration of May’s Life was held at the Hays Community Hall, Hays on Saturday, May 26, 2018 at 2:00 P.M. A committal service followed at the Hays Cemetery. 

 May is survived by her children Dale “Jock” Clifton, Linda (Stu) Braaten, Peggy (Jim) Garrett, Bob Clifton, Helen Clifton and son-in-law Keith Wolfer all of Hays; fifteen grandchildren, forty great grandchildren, fifteen great great grandchildren with a couple more on the way. She is also survived by two brothers Ralph Richardson of Raymond and Carl (Marie) Richardson of Stirling; sisters-in-law Peg Richardson, Marge Richardson, Mary Richardson and June Clifton, as well as many nieces and nephews.  

 She is predeceased by her husband GR, daughter Kathy Wolfer, daughter-in-law Janet Clifton, grandson Jamie Clifton and six brothers.

 On September 7, 1927 in Raymond, May was born to David and Ethel Richardson. By the time the Richardson family was complete, May was the only girl with eight brothers. In contrast, her father was the only boy with eight sisters, both were spoiled by their siblings. Growing up, May loved horses and rollerskating, even winning a trophy for her roller skating prowess. In 1946, May married GR Clifton, then in 1953 after a few years of moving around, they homesteaded on a farm in Hays to raise their family. Mom lived in Hays until 2014 when she and dad moved to Taber. While raising her family, May worked at various jobs but always made sure that anyone coming into her home was well fed and made to feel at home. She was a favourite of any friends and acquaintances we brought home, affectionately known as Mom, Auntie May or Grams by everyone. Mom loved spending time with young people, and when we would volunteer her to chaperone she would always accept. From parties and dances, to Newfoundland with the Boy Scouts and Disneyland with the Shalom Teen Club, mom was an awesome chaperone. Mom loved to travel and was often seen speeding down the highway. Family was everything to May, and they will miss her dearly.

 If friends so desire, memorial tributes in May’s name may be made directly to the Hays Seniors Club, PO Box 34 Hays, Alberta T0K 1B0 or a charity of your choice.