Clifton C. "Clif"' Curry, 85, left this realm Tuesday, September 02, 2008 after a long and joyful life. He enjoyed almost 60 years of marriage to the love of his life, Louise Owens Curry. Clif was very proud of both his children and enjoyed telling everyone he encountered about his precious grandchildren.

Clif was born on May 27, 1923 and was a life-long resident of Tampa. He graduated from Plant High School in 1940 and attended The University of Tampa all while working to support his mother and younger brother.

During World War II, Clif served in the Army's 1891st Aviation and Engineering Battalion in China, Burma, and India. After World War II, he served in the Army Reserves while working as the manager at C. Williams Rubber Stamp Co. before being recalled to active duty during the Korean War. While serving during the Korean War, he became a recruiting officer for the Army's 8th Division. After he completed serving our country for 12 years he taught ROTC at Florida Southern College, Plant, Hillsborough, and Jefferson High Schools. He married Louise Owens on October 18, 1948.

In January 1955, Clif opened his business and became a prominent rubber stamp maker in the Tampa area after being joined in the business by his beloved wife, Louise. Clif was known by his customers and competitors alike as an honest, hardworking, fair businessman. Clif and Louise retired in 1990, spending many hours with their grandchildren, traveling and raising orchids.

Clif was a member of the Palma Ceia Kiwanis Club serving on every committee and as its President for two separate terms. He had over 35 years perfect attendance and was made a Life Member several years ago. During his tenure in the Kiwanis Club, he introduced the annual Achievement Awards for the 4H Clubs of Hillsborough County and then proceeded to present the award to deserving students excelling in agriculture for the next 35 years.

Clif grew orchids and was an American Orchid Society Judge. He traveled the world judging Orchids, served as the President of the Florida West Coast Orchid Society, and Chairman of the Florida Caribbean Orchid Supplemental Regional Judging Center. Clif also served as a Trustee of the American Orchid Society and as President of the Tampa Men's Garden Club. His many passions included traveling, orchids, and spending time with his beloved wife and five grandchildren.

Clif was raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason in Desoto Lodge #105,was a member of the Scottish Rite, Tampa Consistory, Egypt Shrine Center and supporter of Shrine Hospitals For Children.

Clif is survived by his wife of almost 60 years, Louise Owens Curry; his daughter, Carole Jenkins; his son-in-law, Steve Jenkins; his son, Clifton Conrad Curry, Jr.; his daughter-in-law, Teresa Curry; his granddaughters, Mary Beth Curry & Laura Jenkins; his grandsons, Colton Curry & Stephen Jenkins; his brother, Austin R. Curry; and many nieces & nephews. His infant daughter, Barbara Annette, his grandson, Clifton Conrad Curry III "Trey", his mother Rosamond Curry, and his father, Elmer Curry, predeceased him.

Clif will be honored at a Celebration of his life this Friday, September 5, 2008 1:30P.M. The Celebration will be held at Serenity Meadows Funeral Home, 6919 Providence Road, Riverview, Florida. The family will receive friends at Winthorp Theatre, 11349 Bloomingdale Ave. following the service. Memorial donations may be made to The Trey Curry Foundation c/o Platinum Bank, 802 W. Lumsden Rd. Brandon 33511 or the charity of your choice.