Waterbury-John P. “Jack” Clifford, age 84, beloved husband of Mary E. (Rotella) Clifford, passed away on Saturday May 24, 2025 at Waterbury Hospital surrounded by his family.

Born in Waterbury, CT on February 13, 1941, he was son of the late Michael and Margaret (Moriarty) Clifford.  Jack was a lifelong Waterbury resident and joined the Waterbury Police Department in 1964.  He served the City of Waterbury as a police officer for 35 years.  After retirement, he served as manager at Charter Oak Crematory in Oxford.  He proudly served his country in United States Navy.  Jack was an active member of the Waterbury Elks Lodge #265 where he served as PDDGER as well as many other posts.  He was a director and active member of the Waterbury Police Athletic League.  He enjoyed gardening, smoking his cigars, but his true passion was his family and helping others.

In addition to his wife Mary, he leaves his family to honor his memory, Sean M. Clifford and his wife Ellen of Amston, CT, Kevin J. Clifford and his wife Michele of Prospect, Margaret Mary Simpson and David of Waterbury, and Maureen Pavolko and her husband Perry of Pittfield, MA; his grandchildren, John Pavolko, Jaclyn Donahue, Brittany and Matt Arburr,  Zack Simpson, Tyler, Brandon, Patrick, Amanda, Meghan Clifford, and Sarah Arburr; his three great grandchildren Noah and Bryce Arburr, and KJ Lott; and several nieces and nephews.  Jack was predeceased by his sister Sheila M. Clifford.

A celebration of Jack’s life will be held on Saturday June 28, 2025 from 12-4 p.m. at the Waterbury Elks Lodge #265, 283 West Main Street, Waterbury.  To send an on-line condolence or share a memory, please visit www.naugtauckvalleymemorial.com.  The Naugatuck Valley Memorial/Fitzgerald Zembruski Funeral Home, 240 North Main Street, Naugatuck, is assisting the family with arrangements.