Benjamin Jerome Clifton, 69, passed away on December 5, 2025 at Superior Health and Rehabilitation in Conway, AR. Ben was born August 3, 1956 in Monroe. LA to Herman and Ruby Ray Clifton. Ben was the youngest of 4 children. His parents and sister Cheryl preceded him in death.
Ben was raised in Arkadelphia on Haddock St just adjacent to the old Arkadelphia High School. Many lifelong friendships established in the tight knit neighborhood wedged between the high school and Henderson State Teachers College (University now). Ben was active in football, civics, debate team, Student Council Officer, National Honor Society, Boy Scouts and Explorer Scouts, He attended Boys State in the summer of 1973. Proud Arkadelphia Badger (AHS 74), he went on to graduate Hendrix College in 1978 and William H Bowen School of Law and received Juris Doctorate in 1982.
Ben went on to practice law in AR for many years until health issues forced him to retire early. He has many friends and colleges from Arkadelphia, Hendrix and law school days that will miss him and his Friendship. Ben had an especially good time in October 2024 at his AHS 50-year reunion, reconnecting with classmates. Within a few days of his recent passing, he was fondly talking about “the reunion”.
Ben is survived by brothers H David Clifton MD of Wichita KS and Don Clifton of Leslie, AR along with nieces and nephews. memorial service will be announced at later date.
Memorial gifts in Ben’s honor can be directed to Hendrix College www.hendrix.edu or Arkansas Children’s Hospital www.archildrens.org
Cremation arrangements by A Natural State Funeral Service 2620 West Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas 72076. 501-982-3400. Online guestbook available at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com
7 Comments
My neighbor my friend fellow scouter we grew up together and did so many things in life. I will always cherish those memories. See you on the otherside brother.
Ben was one of my best friends. He was a groomsman at my wedding and one of the kindest people I have ever met.
Great guy with a respectable personality throughout school. I’m glad I got the opportunity to see and share with him at our last class reunion. Rest easy Ben!
Ben was a friend. I remember his easy smile, a boyish attitude and a question always in his mind. I will miss him. Peace and love go with you Ben!
Ben was one of my oldest friends. I will miss him with all my heart. Rest in peace Ben
Ben always had a smile and a welcome for everyone. A truly good man who will be missed.
Ben was a lovely person I got to on know at Hendrix. I’m happy that we connected again on Facebook many years ago. He was a voice of reason and compassion. I will miss him in our world.
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