Clifford William Callender

Clifford Callender was born on December 9, 1945, to Phillip and Florine (Anderson) Callender. He passed away at his home on September 16, 2022, at the age of 76. Between birth and his untimely passing, Clifford made quite an impression on anyone who was lucky enough to meet him. He was known as a calm man, but Clifford was also a man of action, filled with strength, love, grace, and sincerity. Clifford was always an easy person to talk to and always knew the right thing to say to encourage those around him and ease their minds. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, cousin, uncle, and friend who will be fondly missed.

Professionally, Clifford worked at the General Motors Columbus plant for nearly 30 years before retiring in 2006. He was the definition of a hard-working man who dedicated his life to raising and supporting his beloved family. Life after retirement served as Clifford’s second wind. He spent his years traveling with his family, attending every cookout he could, and volunteering with local ministries.

Clifford was baptized in 1981 at Bethlehem Temple Apostolic Church, and over the years, he supported his wife throughout her ministry at Victory Deliverance Church of Christ and with God ‘N’ Me outreach mentoring. His faith in Christ was never questioned and he laid a strong foundation for all his children.  Clifford enjoyed many different hobbies to help pass the time, from testing his luck whenever he could to just “cooling out” in his backyard, and he loved listening to music. He also loved watching his favorite teams the Buckeyes and Browns play. Clifford could really have a good time doing any leisure activity, but he probably loved fishing the most and nothing made him prouder than being able to pass down that love and knowledge of fishing to generations of young men.  Clifford will always be remembered for his gentle soul, easy conversations, and being a man of action and few words.

Clifford was preceded in death by his parents, Phillip and Florine (Anderson) Callender; brother, Phillip (Dorothy) Callender; sisters, Pamela Beaty and Bonita Moore Zachary; and sons, Clifton Lavar Callender and Clifford W. Callender Jr. 

Clifford leaves behind a large family to cherish his memory, including: his beloved wife and companion of 45 years, Pauline Callender; sons, Maurice (Eleanor) Callender, Patrick Callender, Derrick (Carlita) Callender, Marvin Williams, and Clinton Callender; daughters, Clintina Callender and Clovetta Callender; siblings, Carol Sue Rose, James (Tracy) Callender, and Michelle Callender; grandchildren, Patrice, Patrick Jr., Sania, Samantha, Jeremy, Hezekiah, Malachi, Derrick, De’rricka, Ka’la (Iman) Lowery, and Kevin Williams; great-grandchildren, Anthony, Arsha, and Ta’yanui; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, brothers-in-law, and friends, including the Bradley family.

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