Joyce Marie Clifton

In Loving Memory of Joyce Marie Clifton September 29, 1939 — October 24, 2025

Joyce Marie Clark Clifton passed away peacefully on October 24, surrounded by family. She was born on September 29, 1939, in the village of Santa Rita, New Mexico, to William Elgin Clark of Cliff, New Mexico, and Ellen Augusta Croom of Boise, Oregon. Joyce was raised in Silver City, where she spent her early years before marrying and raising her family. She built a family and a life rooted in devotion, resilience, and quiet strength. Joyce was the proud mother of four children: Ted Clifton (Jan), Gary Clifton (Donna), Yvonne Layman (John), and Virginia Ann Clifton, who passed away just days after birth.

 She was a loving grandmother to nine grandchildren: Tyson Clifton, Evertt Clifton, James Clifton (Kalani), Annemarie Tucker, Doug Layman, Kristin Peavler (Nate), Crystal Best (Taylor), Kacie Twitchell (Paul), and Kaylee Butler (Graf), as well as 24 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren. Joyce was active in her community and belonged to Altrusa for many years, giving service to local causes. She had a deep love for her pets and owned and operated a dog grooming salon before later purchasing a flower shop, where her eye for floral design brought joy to many. She was also a talented cook and was especially known for her annual holiday baking, filling her home with Christmas cookies, fudge, and an assortment of handmade treats that her family looked forward to every year.

 She is preceded in death by her parents William and Ellen (Gussie) Clark, her brother Elton Clark, her daughter-in-law Brenda Payne Clifton, her son Ted Clifton, her infant daughter Virginia Ann Clifton, and her grandson Johnathon Layman, and son-in-law John Layman. Joyce will be cremated, and her ashes will be taken by her family to Cliff, New Mexico, to be spread over the grave of her parents at a time yet to be determined.

 She will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know her.