On January 7, 2020, our beloved Clifton Joel Foriest went home to be with his Lord and Savior. He was the oldest of eight children born to the late Clifton and Naomi Foriest. A native of Conway, NC, he grew up in St. John AME Church where he as youngster attended Sunday School Conventions. His mentor at St. John was his grandmother, the late Mrs. Virgie Peebles.
After graduating from Willis Hare High School, Clifton attended Shaw University in Raleigh, NC where he graduated with a B.S. Degree in Health and Physical Education. At Shaw University, Clifton met and married his beloved wife, Lillie. Two sons were born to this union, Dexter and Daryl. Later, Clifton did further study at Hampton University.
Clifton and his family relocated to New York where he pursued his career with the New York State Supreme Court System. During his career, Clifton received many outstanding Awards. He did not forget his roots. He joined St. Matthews AME Church in Bronx, NY, where he served as a Trustee, Chairman of Men’s Day, and as an Officer of the Finance Commission. Clifton remained in good and regular standing (Attendance and Financial) at St. Matthews AME Church. While at St. Matthews AME Church, Clifton met a youngster, Joseph Zeigler, who was really in need of parental guidance. He took this youngster under his wings and later, Clifton and his wife took him into their home and raised him as their son.
Upon retirement, Clifton and his family relocated to Portsmouth, VA. Again, he did not forget his roots. He reclaimed membership at St. John AME Church where he worshipped under the pastorate of Rev. Mildred Brown. He continued to be in good and regular standing at St. John AME Church. God has continued to bless Clifton and his family as they continued “Kingdom Building for Jesus” at Mt. Gilead Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Shelton Murphy.
Preceding Clifton in death was a son, Dexter J. Foriest; and his parents, the late Clifton & Naomi Foriest. Left to cherish precious memories are his beloved and devoted wife of 54 years, Lillie Foriest; one son, Daryl Foriest (Johnette) of Bronx, NY; several grandchildren; special granddaughter, Dr. Whytnee Foriest; two sisters: Beverly Rougeaux and Connie Williams (Ben); brothers; Fajor Foriest (Lyndia), Randolph Foriest (Margaret), Samuel Foriest (Queen), Charles (Nkechi) and Cedric (Emma); and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.
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Joe LaGrippo says
January 8, 2020 at 7:49 pmR.I.P. Always proffessional and a gentleman just like his brothers.
Thomas Fallon says
January 9, 2020 at 8:17 amA great man, good friend and many loving memories. Love, thoughts and prayers to all the family. RIP Cliff.
Johnny L. Majette says
January 9, 2020 at 1:00 pmRIP Big Brother Joe L and to the family ……. Wishing you peace in God’s Promise and you find comfort in the knowledge that your loved one lives on and will love you forever .With Sympathy ….. Johnny L. Majette and Family .
Cathy Johnson says
January 9, 2020 at 7:40 pmSister Foriest & Family,
May God continue to wrap his loving arms around you as you journey through this season of grief. Just know that your Mt. Gilead Family loves you!
Continue to look to God today and in days to come.
Cathy Johnson
Josephine Humphrey says
January 10, 2020 at 10:53 amRip you will be truly missed.what a great person with a sense of humor and charisma.
Teresa Badger says
January 20, 2020 at 8:18 pmLillie I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your husband. It was such a pleasure to have met him during your trip back to the county for the Pamlico County Training Pamlico Central School Reunions. God bless you and family.