Clifford, Timothy Edward

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Timothy Edward Clifford on January 3, 2025, at the age of 72. Surrounded by his loving family and friends in his final days, Tim was a man whose immense sense of humor, deeply tender heart, and boundless love for his family defined him.

He was predeceased by his sisters, Mary Therese Needham and Eileen Fee, and his brother, Michael Clifford. Tim is survived by his devoted wife, Sarah Jane Clifford, his daughters Candice (Matthew) Donaldson and Emily Clifford, and his cherished grandchildren, Lucas and Greta Donaldson. He is also remembered by his brothers, Jeremiah (Mary Lou) Clifford and Thomas Clifford; his sister, Kathleen (Michael) Malarney; his brothers and sisters-in-law, Kenneth Bernhardt, Alan (Sallie) Bernhardt, and Peggy (Ian) Tirrell; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and many lifelong friends.

Tim was born on August 27, 1952, to Timothy and Eileen Clifford in Rochester, NY. As the youngest of seven, he was showered with love and attention by his older siblings and affectionately known as his mother’s “Irish Prince.” He spent his early childhood in the 19^th Ward, attending Our Lady of Good Counsel, before moving to Pittsford and attending St. Louis Catholic School, eventually graduating from Pittsford Sutherland High School. Tim went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from St. John Fisher College in Rochester, NY. Tim spent over two decades as a salesman for Genesee Brewing Company, a role that fostered a deep, lasting bond with the brewery that he carried proudly throughout his life.

Tim was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather—his family was his greatest joy and accomplishment. He married the love of his life, Sarah Jane Bernhardt (affectionately known as “Shorty”) and together they enjoyed a lifetime of adventures. Their daughters, Candice and Emily, were the light of Tim’s life, and he made sure they knew how deeply adored they were. As a grandfather, Tim was a natural, and he reveled in sharing his passions with his grandchildren—teaching Lucas about race cars and engines, and listening intently as Greta played the piano.

A true enthusiast of high-performance vehicles, Tim’s love for speed was evident in his love for race spectating and his beloved Ducati 750ss and Porsche. In the summers, he could often be found cruising the back roads of Mendon, his lead foot finding solace in the open road.

While we have lost our most cherished husband and father, many others have lost a dear friend. Tim was a rock to those who knew him, a master of sarcastic humor with impeccable timing, and even a royal pain in the neck to a select few—though those who had the honor of being close to him knew that his loyalty was unwavering. Once someone was marked as important in Tim’s life, his commitment to them was steadfast.

Tim’s passing leaves a void that can never be filled, but his legacy of love, laughter, and loyalty will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Calling hours will be held at Richard H. Keenan Funeral Home (Egypt location), 7501 Pittsford Palmyra Rd., Fairport NY 14450 on Friday, January 10^th from 4:00 to 6:00 pm.

Memorial Service will be held at St. John of Rochester, 8 Wickford Way, Fairport NY 14450, Saturday January 11 at 12:00pm. No interment following.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Mercy Flight Central or Rochester Spinal Association.