James "Jay" Clifford

Jay Clifford, age 68, of Worcester sadly passed away late Monday night December 5, after a struggle with cancer. Jay was born on September 22, 1954 at Worcester City Hospital to James L. Clifford and Lois Brown Clifford of Shrewsbury, Massachusetts. Jay is survived by his brother, Peter B. Clifford; his sister-in-law, Susan M. Meyer; and their children, Samuel, Benjamin, and Anna. Jay also leaves behind many dear friends who loved him and his curious nature and youthful demeanor. Jay was a local art legend and leaves a prolific body of work which includes paintings, reliefs, and photographs. Terri Priest was so impressed by Jay’s glitter series that she gave him a one person show at the Fletcher/Priest Gallery. Jay showed his work in many galleries throughout the United States and received numerous awards for his work. Jay was a “painter’s painter”, who was engaged in the creative process daily. Jay began his education at Happy Acres Nursery School which sparked his enthusiasm for the arts which strongly influenced his life. He attended Shrewsbury High School, then graduated from Phillips Exeter Academy in 1973 where he led the crew team to victory. He then studied English at Connecticut College BA 1998, and painting at Massachusetts College of Art and Design 2000 MFA. Jay worked as a residential counselor in various mental health facilities helping teens at risk and adults with disabilities. He loved to take long rides to nowhere, always searching for inspiration along the way. He also enjoyed a strong martini and great conversations with friends and strangers alike. He was so gregarious and social he became known as the quasi-ambassador of the Greendale YMCA. Jay will be sorely missed but will be continuously remembered through his art and the bigger than life memories he leaves behind. You are already missed. Jay Clifford’s extensive art collection is featured on the website www. saatchart. com/hayclifford Final services for Jay are incomplete at the moment but will be announced at a later date. Services are in the care of Kelly Cremation and Funeral Care.