In Loving Memory of Ira Clifford Evans.

Clifford, a beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, and great grandfather, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his family on May 12th at the age of 83.

Born and raised in Waycross, Georgia, Clifford graduated from Waycross High School in 1959. Shortly after graduation, Clifford moved to Fernandina Beach where he started his career at The Fernandina Beach Paper Mill, West Rock Corporation. Throughout his career, he volunteered as a board member for Container Mutual Credit Union for almost 50 years.

In his early years, he was active in the community volunteering for Yulee Little League in various roles such as President of the Association and umpire. He also volunteered as an ambassador for Boy Scouts of America and Rainbow Girls with his daughters. During this time, he hiked the Appalachian Trail with the South Georgia Conference of the United Methodist Church group. Additionally, Clifford was a Freemason and a member of the Amelia Masonic Lodge #47.

Clifford was a devout Christian, and a member of Blackrock Baptist Church for 28 years. He loved the Lord, and he loved to help others. To Clifford, family was everything, and he valued every moment spent with his wife, kids, grandchildren, and great grandchildren who affectionately called him Poppy. His grandkids and great grandkids were the icing on the cake.

He was also an avid sports enthusiast, with a passionate loyalty to the Georgia Bulldogs. He found joy in cheering for the Dawgs every Saturday, and he specifically enjoyed their most recent National Championships!

One of Clifford’s greatest pleasures was spending time outdoors, especially fishing and golf. Whether casting a line into the river or ripping a drive down the middle, he loved the camaraderie, and he enjoyed these weekly outings with friends and family members.

Above all else, Clifford was known for his unwavering love and devotion to his wife, Cindy. They shared a permanent bond that was a great example of everlasting love and companionship. He was married to Cindy for 30 years, which is a testament to their lasting love and commitment.

Clifford was preceded in death by his parents, Sterling Gonder and Myrtle Lee Evans, brothers Benny and Gene, sister Barbara, and granddaughter, Amelia. He is survived by his wife, Cindy, and his children: Lisa Weaver (Jimmy), Kris-Tina Smith (Herb), Marjorie Drawdy (Wayne), Shawn Johnson (Katie), David Johnson (Stacey), Turk Johnson (Trish). He is also survived by his grandchildren: Meghan Harmon (James), Dylan Smith, Katy and Will Weaver, Avery and Emery Johnson, Mya Johnson, Preston and Felicity Johnson. Additionally, he leaves behind three great grandchildren: Hazel and Hudson Harmon, and Makhaela Ellison.

Clifford will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of love, kindness, and joy will forever live on in the hearts of those he touched.

A viewing will be held on Friday, May 17th, at Oxley Heard Funeral Directors from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM. The funeral service to honor his life will be held at Blackrock Baptist Church on Saturday, May 18th at 11 AM.

Rather than flowers, a donation can be made to the Blackrock Baptist Building Fund in his memory.

Rest in peace, Poppy. You will be forever cherished and remembered.