Clifton Neil Burgess

Clifton Neil Burgess was born in Washington D.C. on June 30, 1925, to the late Neil and Ella Burgess.  He grew up and lived in Silver Spring, Maryland.      

Clifton grew up in the church.  He loved the Lord and had many favorite Bible Verses. Clifton devoted his time to the church by serving in various ministries at First Baptist Church of Ken-Gar as Chairman of the Trustee Board.

Clifton was united in marriage by Reverand James W. Murphy of First Baptist Church of Ken-Gar to Elsie Inez Caldwell on August 20, 1966.

Clifton, dedicated to his country, served in the Army during World War II. He served for 3 years as a Photographer, and he was Honorably Discharged in 1946. He worked for over 44 years for Kiplinger Changing Times Magazine in Washington D.C. After he retired, he devoted his time to his wife and family. He loved to tinker with his many cars and spent countless hours in the garage or outside gardening. He was a member of Pythagoras Lodge #74 PHA for over 50 years. 

Clifton’s life was filled with the joy and laughter of his family. He was witty and always made everyone feel comfortable and loved. Family members and friends recall Clifton loving to take pictures, golf with his wife, garden, take long walks with his dog Teddy, read how-to books on woodworking, take long drives, and spend quality time with family and friends.  

Clifton was preceded in death by his wife, the love of his life, Elsie Burgess, and his parents Neil and Ella Burgess.

Clifton Burgess departed this life peacefully and was called home to be with the Lord on November 15, 2023, at Able Plus Assisted Living in Silver Spring Maryland. He leaves in God’s care and to cherish his memory his Children Son Ralph (Debra); Daughter Brenda; Grandchildren Tycia, Kisha, Aishia (York); Great grandchildren Michael II (Shelby), Krista (Cedric), Naima, Brooklynn, and Braelynn; Great-great granddaughter Teagan; and a host of relatives and friends.

The Burgess family sends a special thank you to Ada Igbo and the staff of Able Plus Assisted Living, Aishia (Granddaughter), and to First Baptist Church of Ken-Gar for all your support.

For our family and friends,

Perhaps you sent a lovely card or sat quietly in a chair.

Perhaps you sent a floral piece, if so, we saw it there.

Perhaps you spoke the kindest words

As any friends could say;

Perhaps you were not there at all;

Just thought of us this day.

Whatever you did to console our hearts;

We thank you so much, whatever the part.

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