Clifton J. Ladner, born August 17, 1923 in Hancock County, Mississippi to Zeno and Artemese Ladner. He was educated at Dedeaux High School. In 1943 he was drafted into the US Army. He served in the 9th Infantry Division, 60th Regiment, Company C 2nd Platoon with the rank of Private 1st Class. On D-Day his platoon went ashore on the beaches of Normandy. Clifton served in the military for 2 years. He was wounded in battle and received a Purple Heart. He was awarded numerous others medals while serving his country including Good Conduct, European African Middle Eastern Campaign award, Honorable Service for World War II, Meritorious Unit Citation, Four Battle Stars.
After his tour of duty, Clifton began his civil service career with the Department of Navy, at the Naval Construction Battalion Center in Gulfport, Ms. Over his career of 33 years his contributions and accomplishments brought recognition and he was awarded the following awards, Superior Accomplishments Award in 1965, a Navy Unit Commendation for exceptionally Meritorious Service in connection with Hurricane Camille in 1969, a Meritorious Unit Commendation for service in support of military construction efforts in the Republic of Vietnam in 1971, a Superior Achievement Award in 1971, and Outstanding Achievement Award in 1971, Superior Performance in 1977, a 30 year Service Award in 1980.
Clifton was a lifetime member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Dedeaux. His service to the Parish included Parish Council President for 12 years, St. Vincent De Paul President 8 years, and several years with the Cursillo Movement. He also served as Annual Bazaar Chairman for over 20 years. He was very involved with the youth organizations including youth retreats, CYO, CCD and youth baseball. In 2007 he was awarded the Light of Christ Award by Bishop Thomas Rodi for his many years of service to his Parish.
On October 7, 2007, Clifton, surrounded by his loving family departed aÌâËhis earthly homeaÌâ⢠and was received by Our Lord and Savior. He was preceded in death by his parents Zeno and Artemese Ladner, Brothers, Clements Ladner and Cleveland Ladner, Sisters, Evelyn Necaise, Lillian Hoda and Mabel Dubuisson. Sons, Clifton J. Ladner, Jr. and Roger D. Ladner. He leaves to cherish his memories, his beloved wife of 65 years, Mazie Spiers Ladner. Sons Donald W. Ladner and wife Sandra , Wendell Ladner and Donna, Louie Ladner, Ray Ladner and wife Gay, Bennie Ladner, Cedric Ladner and wife Shawn, Neal Ladner and wife Anna, daughters Judith Ladner and husband Edwin, Sherrell Johnson and husband Charles, Freda Hoda and husband Desmond. He will also be sadly missed by 32 grandchildren and 36 great-grandchildren.
Clifton will be loving remembered by family and friends for his Love and Pride of his Family, Love of his Country, Love of Music, Love of Sports and his great sense of humor.
He leaves a legacy of Love, Faith in God, Strength and Family Commitment.
Family would appreciate donations to Sacred Heart Chapter of St. Vincent DePaul, 14595 Vidalia Road, Pass Christian, MS 39571.
Visitation will be held Thursday, October 11, 2007 from 6-11pm at the Sacred Heart Retreat Center (Dedeaux School), 14595 Vidalia Road, Pass Christian. A Rosary will be held at 8pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, October 12, 2007 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Dedeaux at 11am. Friends may visit at the church prior to mass. Entombment will follow at the Clifton J. and Mazie S. Ladner Memorial Garden, 1033 Road 390, Hancock County.
THE RIEMANN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 9113 Kiln-DeLisle Road is in charge of arrangements.
An online guestbook may be signed at www.riemannfamily.com.