Clifford Eugene Waldren was born on May 3, 1954, the second child and eldest son of Ellis and Frances (White) Waldren. He departed this life on January 8, 2024, at his home in Covington.

He attended public schools and graduated from Covington High School in 1973. He played football and went to Delaware State University on a football scholarship. He decided that “college was not for him,” so he enlisted in the Air Force and served honorably until his retirement in 1994. His military service sent him to many countries around the world and his main skill set was repairing jet planes and ensuring they were “flight worthy.”

Clifford was a strong, independent man who handled his business well. He was not one to seek help if he could do things on his own. He was a great brother to his siblings, and generous to those he loved. He was a gentle soul, who cared deeply for those who were disabled, mentally challenged and downtrodden. He was a helping hand to the elderly, and many called him their “friend”. Clifford had a great love for fishing, bow-hunting, and outdoor activities. He enjoyed motorcycles and bike riding. Clifford was very well organized, an exceptional cook, and kept a clean house, until his illnesses prevented him from doing the things he excelled at.

Clifford also had a wonderful tenor voice and would sing his favorite songs with his sisters and friends on the telephone. It was his “thing” especially with Karen, to rock the old hymns of the church. One of his favorites was, “One Day at A Time”. He was also a fan of Earth, Wind and Fire, and often ended his song sessions with, “Open our Eyes.”

He became a proud father in 1987 to his son, Taurean Ellis Hambling. Taurean was always in his heart and Cliff wanted to be a good father to him.

Clifford returned to Covington after he retired from the Air Force to be close to his aging parents and was the primary caregiver to his father during his declining years.

Clifford worked at Jackson River Enterprises, an organization which provided meaningful employment, vocational training, day support, and community involvement to people with disabilities. He loved working with the JRE employees and retired twice from that organization.

Clifford is lovingly remembered by his family; son, Taurean Ellis Hambling (Rebecca); and grandchildren, Ellis and Myla. His siblings: Rev. Frances Waldren Stewart, Covington; Steven Lloyd Waldren (Karen), New Orleans, LA; Faye Anita Waldren, Covington, VA; Karen Regina Waldren, Covington; Rodney Ellis Waldren (Jennifer), Germantown, MD; and Alan Mandel Waldren, Covington. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ellis and Frances Waldren.Clifford will be missed by a host of cousins, nieces and nephews, other relatives and a huge circle of friends.

Arrangements are being coordinated by Arritt Funeral Home. We have honored his request to be cremated. A memorial service will be held at Pine Street Baptist Church on Friday, April 5, 2024, at 12:00 P.M. with the Rev. Dr., Thomas Harper officiating.  Visitation is scheduled one hour prior to the service at the church.

Online condolences may be shared with the family at arrittruneralhome.com