Born in Hornell, January 29, 1932, the daughter of William and Agnes Ames Overton, she had resided in Hornell her entire life. She was a graduate of Hornell High School, class of 1950 and had been employed at several Hornell retail stores including: the former Matties , J.J. Newberry’s, Koskies, and Andy’s Sub Shop. For several years, Rosemary was employed as a crossing guard for the Hornell School District.
She was a member of the United Methodist Church of Hornell, a member and Past President of the Ladies Auxillary of the Hornell VFW, the AMVETS, and had volunteered for several years in the gift shop at St. James Mercy Hospital. Rosemary was one of the original “Dancing Grannies” for Miss Lisa’s Artistry of Dance, and was the official “greeter” and receptionist.
She was predeceased by her parents, her husband, James J. Clifford Sr., to whom she was married on October 10, 1953, two sisters; Phyllis Mattie, and Elaine Brazee, as well as her three brothers; William, Orrie, and Robert Overton and her son-in-law; Richard T. Wood.
She is survived by her three daughters; Kimberly Wood, Kathleen (Andrew) Conine , and Kelly (Thomas) Matacale all of Hornell, her five sons; James (Renea) Clifford Jr., William (Judy) Clifford, Timothy Clifford, Robert Clifford, and Brian (Heather) Clifford all of Hornell, 18 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren and nieces and nephews, as well as her two good friends; Becky Stillman and Diana Olds.
To send a remembrance to the family, please visit www.brownandpowersfuneralhomes.com. The family is being assisted by Gerald R. Brown, Director.
The family will be present to receive friends on Thursday (July 6, 2017) from 4 until 7 p.m. at the Bender-Brown & Powers Funeral Home, 354 Canisteo Street, Hornell. Funeral services will be held on Friday (July 7, 2017) at 11:00 a.m. at the Hornell United Methodist Church, Webb’s Crossing Road in Hornell with Rev. Lenny Fuller officiating. Graveside committal services will follow at Bath National Cemetery.
Friends wishing to remember Rosemary are asked to make a donation to the American Cancer Society, 13 Beech Street, Johnson City, NY 13709, or to Care First Hospice, 3805 Meads Creek Road, Painted Post, NY 14870.
