James Richard “Rick” Clifton

Published 12:00 pm Thursday, June 12, 2025

James Richard “Rick” Clifton, beloved son, brother, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away unexpectedly on June 10, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, wisdom, and unwavering spirit.

James Richard “Rick” Clifton

Funeral services for Mr. Clifton will be held on Friday, June 13, 11 a.m., at the First Baptist Church of Opp with Rev. Cameron Crapps and Rev. Jacob Morgan officiating, and Foreman Funeral Home directing. Mr. Clifton will lie in state Thursday evening beginning at 5:30 p.m. at Foreman Funeral Home. Interment will follow in Andalusia Memorial Cemetery.

A proud graduate of the University of Alabama and Cumberland School of Law, James devoted his professional life to the practice of law before retiring and turning his focus to the growth and vitality of his community. After retiring from law, he remained deeply dedicated to the economic development of Covington County, working tirelessly to support progress and opportunity for the region he loved so dearly. Rick devoted his life to both the pursuit of knowledge and the service of others.

Rick was a passionate supporter of the Crimson Tide. His love for the Crimson Tide ran deep; he loved Alabama sports and rarely missed a game, whether in person or from the comfort of his home.

Rick had an adventurous soul and a deep appreciation for the world’s beauty. He traveled extensively with his family, friends, and cherished companion, Becky, gathering memories and stories that he loved to share. Closer to home, he especially enjoyed golf trips to Goose Pond, where the company and camaraderie meant as much as the game.

Rick cherished the simple joys in life, including his beloved cat, Kitty Grey, whose companionship brought him much joy.

A man of faith, Rick was an active member of First Baptist Church of Opp, where he found community and joy, particularly through his involvement in the church choir. Music and fellowship were central to his life, and he gave his voice and heart freely to both.

He also had a deep interest in family history and was a passionate lover of genealogy, spending countless hours tracing his roots and preserving stories for future generations. One of his greatest points of pride was his Corvette, which brought him much joy and a touch of flair wherever he went.

Rick will be remembered for his intelligence, sense of humor, generous heart, and steadfast values. He lived a life full of curiosity, kindness, and purpose, and those who knew him are better for it.

Rick is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Martin and Christa Clifton of Andalusia; his daughter, Audra Clifton of Birmingham; his granddaughter, Evelyn James Clifton of Andalusia; a special friend and companion, Becky Bracke of Opp; his brother, Ronald Thomas Clifton (Louise) of Birmingham; and the mother of his children, Judy Martin of Birmingham.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry Bass Clifton Jr. and Lula Maude Haigler Clifton.

Rick was joyfully anticipating the arrival of his first grandson, Christopher Banks Clifton, who is expected to be born at the end of June.

Pallbearers serving the Clifton family will be Brett Ballard, Brock Ballard, Grant Holley, Josh Dutton, Rocky Summerlin, and Trippy McGuire.

Honorary pallbearers will include Gary Smith, Mike Wells, David Darby, Jimmy Eiland, Ed Short, Bill Greenwald, Ben Bowden, Steve Sexton, and Earl Johnson.

Those wishing to express condolences to the family or share a special memory of Mr. Rick Clifton may do so at www.foremanfuneralhome.com.