Clifford Ripley

Clifford Ripley, age 84, of Marion, passed away at 10:50pm on Sunday, August 30, 2009 at Parkway Manor Nursing Home in Marion. Clifford was born November 24, 1924 in Mowequa, Illinois the son of Oscar L. & Nellie (Babbs) Ripley. He married Virginia Mae Edens on November 3, 1947 in Gibson City, Illinois and together they shared over 60 years of marriage until her death on July 23, 2008. He was a lifelong member and Trustee of Marion Independent Baptist Church. Clifford retired from the Illinois State Health Department in 1986. Active member of the National Association of Sanitarians, where he served a term as President and a term as Vice-President. He was named the Unsung Hero for Southern Illinois in February 2002 for his dedication to bringing travel documentaries and movies to residents of local area nursing homes. He was also a member of AFSCME Illinois Retirees Chapter 31. Member of the Marine Corps League Shawnee Detachment #812, in 2003 he was honored as the Marine of the Year. Clifford was a supporter and major influence in the Toys for Tots program every year. Clifford is survived by Five children; Sons James L. Ripley and wife Linda of Lubbock, TX, David W. Ripley and wife Karol of Toole, UT, Daughters Wrayanne R. Flasar of Schaumburg, IL, Gena M. Carmen of Elk Grove Village, IL, Connie J. Rowe of Marion, Nine Grandchildren; Lara Jane Flasar, Brandon Ripley and wife Cassiey, Heather Cronin and husband Matt, Mindy Carmen, Greg Carmen, Brittany Ripley, Ashley Ripley, Briana Rowe, Makenna Rowe and Three Great Grandchildren, Tyler Black, Kaden Ripley and Karter Ripley. Along with many nieces and nephews. Preceded by his wife Virginia M. Ripley, his parents and all seven of his siblings. Funeral services will be held at 1pm on Saturday, September 5, 2009 at Mitchell-Hughes Funeral Home in Marion with Rev. Keith Rankin officiating. Entombment will follow at East lawn Memorial Gardens in Energy. Military rites will be presented by Marions VFW Post #1301, American Legion Post #147 and National Guard Military Honors Team. Visitation will be held from 5-8pm on Friday, September 4, 2009 at Mitchell-Hughes Funeral Home. For those who prefer, memorial donations may be made to the Toys for Tots Program or Hospice of Southern Illinois.