Rev. Bettye Jean Clifton, 78
October 3, 1947 – June 5, 2026
Rev. Bettye Jean Clifton, of Oxford, Mississippi, peacefully entered eternal rest at her home on June 5, 2026.
Born on October 3, 1947, to Emma Mae Johnson, and Frank Jones. As a bonus, she was lovingly raised by her Grandfather Charlie Blackmon and stepfather Leland Johnson. Bettye was a woman of deep faith, compassion, and dedication to serving others. She graduated from Central High School in 1965 and spent much of her life in Oxford, where she became known for her warm spirit and unwavering commitment to God.
Rev. Clifton was a faithful member of Toby Tubby Missionary Baptist Church until she answered God’s call into the ministry. She devoted her life to preaching the Gospel and shepherding congregations as pastor of Shiloh CME Church, Duff Chapel CME Church, Trinity CME Church, and Naylor Chapel CME Church. Through her ministry, she touched countless lives with her wisdom, encouragement, and love.
Before being called to preach, she worked at Emerson and the Gin Restaurant. After retiring from pastoral service in 2019, she continued to share her faith and kindness with everyone she encountered.
Rev. Clifton was known for her joyful personality, loving heart, and genuine concern for others. She served as a spiritual mother, mentor, and friend to many.
She leaves to cherish her precious memories her sisters, Tressie (Greg) of Oxford, Mississippi, and Charlotte (Deshaun) of Clinton, Maryland; her brothers, Frankie Johnson of Oxford, Mississippi, Randolph (Katie) Johnson of McDonough, Georgia, and Bobby (Carrin) Johnson of Meridian, Idaho along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, church family, and dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Emma Mae Johnson; her stepfather, Leland Johnson; her brothers, Milton Johnson, Haywood Johnson, and Shirley Blackmon; and one sister, Lela Mae Johnson.
Rev. Bettye Jean Clifton’s life was a testament to faith, service, and love. Her legacy will continue through the many lives she touched and the enduring example she set for all who knew her.
Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Smith Chapel C.M.E. Church on 110 County Road 204, Abbeville, MS 38601.
Body will lie in state one hour prior to service time.
Interment will take place at Smith Chapel C.M.E. Church on 110 County Road 204, Abbeville, MS 38601.
Arrangements entrusted to Serenity Funeral Home of Holly Springs, MS.
Please follow the funeral home link above for further information, or to send online condolences or memorial gifts.
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