Robert Clifton, Iii

On February 13, 2019, Robert Douglas Clifton III left this earth and was greeted by his Heavenly Father with the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant." The thousands of petitions over the past year and a half for his healing from cancer were answered in an instant, and he now stands tall and whole in the presence of his Savior.

Robert was born on March 26, 1989, and was a lifelong resident of Mobile. He was a graduate of Theodore High School and attended the University of South Alabama where he studied Music Theory. He first felt God's call to the ministry at the age of 13, and he served in various churches over the years. He followed God's call to full-time music ministry by serving at First Baptist Church of Satsuma and most recently at Cottage Hill Baptist Church, as Director of Worship.

Music connected Robert to people. Whether leading a student choir, an adult choir, or the congregation at church, Robert's heart for music and worship shined through. Robert was a gifted vocalist and pianist. As a soloist, member of vocal groups, accompanist, and orchestra director, Robert made an impact through his talents.

Robert was known for his generosity, compassion for others, and brilliant sense of humor. When he saw a need, he stepped in to meet it. He gave abundantly of both his time and his talents. His love for others prompted him to give freely and without hesitation. His sense of humor is well documented, as his blog about his cancer battle kept everyone informed and in stitches.

In August 2017, Robert received the diagnosis that altered his life's journey, but his faith in Jesus Christ defined his countenance and his character. He determined to fight with all that he had, but he proclaimed that in the end, he would win either way. His belief that Christ is greater than cancer was an inspiration to his friends and family and a testimony of the strength of his faith.

Robert is preceded in death by his grandfathers, Albert S. White, Robert D. Clifton, and William Stringer. He is survived by his loving wife of six years, Kelly (Garvin) Clifton; his parents, Robert and Jennifer Clifton II; sisters, Breanna and Savannah; grandmothers, Mary W. Clifton and Anna W. Stringer; and many other family members and friends.

Visitation will be on Friday, February 22, from 5:00-8:00 p.m. and Saturday, February 23, from 10:00-11:00 a.m. at Cottage Hill Baptist Church. A celebration of Robert's life will be on Saturday, February 23, at 11:00 a.m. One of Robert's greatest joys was leading others in worship. His former choir and worship team members are invited to sing together at his celebration service. Rehearsal will be at 10:00 in the choir room at Cottage Hill. A graveside service will follow at Mobile Memorial Gardens.

Should friends desire, in lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent to the memorial fund for Robert Clifton at Wells Fargo to assist in medical, funeral, and various expenses incurred by the family.

Condolences may be offered at www.mobilefuneralservice.com.

Visitation

Cottage Hill Baptist Church
4255 Cottage Hill Road
Mobile, AL  36609
Friday, February 22, 2019
5:00 ~ 8:00 p.m.

Cottage Hill Baptist Church
4255 Cottage Hill Road
Mobile, AL  36609
Saturday, February 23, 2019
10:00 ~ 11:00 a.m.

Service

Cottage Hill Baptist Church
4255 Cottage Hill Road
Mobile, AL  36609
Saturday, February 23, 2019
11:00 a.m.

Cemetery

Mobile Memorial Gardens
6100 Three-Notch Road
Mobile, AL  36619