First Sergeant Clifton Leroy Bower, (Retired Army), passed away on Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022, in Leesville, La. He was a resident of DeRidder, La. Sgt. Bowers was born on June 1, 1945, in Monroe, La., to the late Letha Mae Carter Bowers and O.C. Bowers. He accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior at an early age and was a member of New Hope CME Church in Deridder, La. Upon completing High School, Clifton enlisted in the United States Army. During his enlistment, he served in the Vietnam Conflict, completed several overseas deployments, earned the rank of E-8, and retired as First Sergeant.
After retiring from the Army, Clifton enjoyed attending church, watching westerns, fishing, cooking, gardening and carpentry work. He attended barber college and earned a degree as a Master Barber and opened a barber shop in DeRidder and was known throughout all the neighborhoods as “Mr. Cliff.” Clifton was also a member of Golden Sheaf Masonic Lodge #104.
Clifton was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents; a sister, Colleen Bowers; two brothers, Archie Joe Bowers and Clinton Bowers.
Clifton leaves to cherish his precious memories, his loving and devoted wife, Cheryl Crockett Bowers; one sister, Robbie Bowers Hopkins; one brother-in-law, James D. Hopkins; two daughters from previous marriages, Khristina Bowers Johnson and Gabryelle Bowers Ashworth; one grandson, Kenias St. Romain; and a host of other relatives and friends.
Funeral service will be held at New Hope CME Church, 810 Ollie St. in DeRidder, La., pastored by the Rev. Patrick D. Lewis. Min. Jackie L. McClain will provide the eulogy. Visiting will be in the church from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Burial will be on Monday, Dec. 19, 2022, in the Central LA Veterans Cemetery under the direction of Semien-Lewis Mortuary of Jennings. Full Military Honors will be accorded by the U.S. Army.
Words of comfort may be expressed to the family at www.semien-lewismortuary.com.