Beloved Shoebury veteran Ron Clifton carried by cannon at funeral

Tributes have been paid to Ron Denzil Clifton, an “absolute rock” who served in the Merchant Navy and Royal Artillery for decades.

The 75-year-old died from pancreatic cancer on April 8 this year, and his funeral was held in Shoebury yesterday.

His coffin was place on the cannon before being taken down Royal Artillery Way, where members of the Shoebury and South Essex branch of the Royal Artillery Association bringing out flags to pay respects.

Flashback - Ron marking 65 years since Korean War

Mr Clifton joined the Royal Artillery after leaving the navy, serving for a full 22 years, leaving as a well-known and respected staff sergeant.

His career then took him across the country, serving at Bramcote as a gunnery instructor and then a recruiting sergeant in Huddersfield, drawing out the best recruits for his regiment.

David Hadjicostas, chairman of the branch, said: “Ron has been the best friend to many of us.

“An absolute rock as we built up the branch.

“A man of the highest standards and one we would follow anywhere.

“After the Army he worked as a manager at The New Ranges at Shoebury and won an enviable reputation for doing things well and taking no prisoners.

“In truth he became my right hand man, my go to guy, and the steady and calming influence over all of us as we strived to make the branch the best in the association.

“Ron was one of only a small group of branch members gifted our highest award for Outstanding Contribution.

“A small token of the love and appreciation we all have for him and the deep and heartfelt thanks for how far he has taken all of us.”

Ron Clifton

He leaves behind his wife Pam, two daughters Heather and Tracy, plus six grandchildren.

Angela Harrington, Mr Clifton’s sister, said: “He was just so lovely, so supportive.

“He spent most of his time away when in the army, but he was a brilliant brother.”

Ron Clifton

Missed - Ron with his wife Pam