J.R. Clifton, 66, of Watseka passed away on Friday, August 16, 2024 at the Iroquois Memorial Hospital Residence Home in Watseka. He was born on December 23, 1957 in Watseka, a son of Robert and Elizabeth “Jane” (Krabel) Clifton. They preceded him in death along with his in-laws, Walter and Elaine (Eastburn) Romine; and brother-in-law and sister-in-law, David and Leatha Romine.

J.R. married Jeanine Romine on February 10, 1979 at the Watseka United Methodist Church and she survives. Also surviving are two sons, Jeffery (Ashley) Clifton of Milford and Mark (Lacy) Clifton of Watseka; four grandchildren, Benjamin and Grace Clifton and Logan and Gavin Clifton; two brothers-in-law, Robert (Cheri) Romine of Ft. Collins, Colorado and Duane Romine of Sheldon; along with many nieces and nephews.

J.R. was a long time farmer in Iroquois County. He was proud to have raised draft horses and Hereford cattle. J.R. served as a 4H leader of the Woodland Cardinals and also enjoyed time spent at the Iroquois County Fair serving as an Assistant Draft Horse Superintendent. He also was in charge of the horse plows during the Woodland Fun Days. J.R. was a past member of the Woodland Fire Department, board member for the Belmont Township Cemetery Board, Drainage Commissioner of Shavetail Creek, and was a member of the Iroquois County Historical Society.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, August 23, 2024 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka and also one hour prior to the funeral service. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 24, 2024 also at the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka with Pastor Ashley Clifton and Pastor Jim Harkins officiating. Burial will follow in the Body Cemetery near Woodland.

Memorials may be given to the family’s wishes.