CLIFTON

Jackie (Smith) Clifton, age 73, of London, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 18, 2026, in her residence, surrounded by her loving family.

Born March 16, 1953, in Tampa, Florida; she was a daughter of Robert “Bob” and Jeanne (Lewis) Smith.

Jackie retired as a sergeant from Madison and Orient Correction Institutions, where she also volunteered for their Speak Out Program while at Orient. She had been instrumental in founding the H.E.L.P. House in London, and routinely donated and provided meals as part of the Welcome Table at St. Paul’s AME Church. Jackie had a lifelong love of bowling and softball, spending countless evenings at the lanes and weekends on the field with her teammates and friends who became like family.

She was preceded in death by her father Bob, mother Jeanne, daughter Tina Grube, brother Tommy Smith, sisters Janie Smith and Johnnie Smith-Tuggle, father-in-law Ron Clifton, Sr.

Surviving Jackie includes her beloved husband: Ron “Cliff” Clifton, Jr.; son Damian (Beth) Grube, daughter Andrea Clifton (Erick Nelson); grandchildren: Megan (Jay) Baker, Melody (Bayley) Dillinger, Wyatt (McKenzie) Grube, Tristin Dennehy, Dalton Grube, Connor Grube, Erick Nelson, Jr., Erion Nelson, Eriah Nelson, and Erinn Nelson; great-grandchildren: Jayson, Meggie, Montana, and Charles; sister-cousin Angel Gordon, special “sister” Randi Sheppard, special cousin Anna Shandale; beloved lifelong friend Debbie (Connie) Lambert; many nieces and nephews including Shelby (Jeremy) Corder; mother-in-law Julia Clifton, and sister-in-law Tammy Clifton.

In accordance with Jackie’s wishes, her body will be donated to the Ohio State College of Medicine, a final act reflecting her generosity and desire to help others.

Memorials in her name may be sent to benefit either the H.E.L.P. House Community Outreach, P.O. Box 44, London, Ohio 43140, or the Welcome Table, 11 West Center Street, London, Ohio 43140.

The EBERLE-FISHER FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY, 103 North Main Street, London, Ohio 43140, is honored to be caring for the Clifton family during this difficult time. Condolences and prayers for the family are encouraged to be shared online at www.eberlefisherfuneralhome.com.