Clifford Eugene Waldren
Clifford Eugene Waldren, age 69, was born on May 3, 1954, the second child and oldest son of the late Ellis and Frances (White) Waldren. He departed this life on January 8, 2024 at his residence in Covington; exactly where he wanted to be.
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 United States 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.”
Clifford became a father in 1987 to his son, Taurean Ellis Hambling, who was his pride and joy. Clifford wanted the best for his child and was always concerned about being a good parent for him.
Clifford returned to Covington after he retired from the United States Air Force to be near his aging parents and was the primary caregiver to his father during his declining years. He was employed by Jackson River Enterprises, whose mission was to provide an array of services to people with disabilities, expand opportunities for vocational training, day support, and community involvement. He loved working with the JRE employees. He retired twice from that organization.
Clifford will be lovingly remembered by his; son, Taurean Ellis Hambling (Rebecca) of Suffolk, England; two grandchildren, Ellis and Myla of Suffolk, England; siblings; Rev. Frances Waldren Stewart of Covington; Steven Lloyd Waldren (Karen), New Orleans, LA; Faye Anita Waldren and Karen Regina Waldren of Covington; Rodney Ellis Waldren (Jennifer) of Germantown, MD; Alan Mandel Waldren of Covington; and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, other relatives and a huge circle of friends.
In keeping with his wishes his body has been cremated and a memorial service is being planned for a later date.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Arritt Funeral Home.
Friends wishing to share online condolences may do so by visiting arrittfuneralhome,com.