"For you have been called to live in freedom, brothers and sisters; only do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh, but through love serve one another" (1 Peter 4:10).

Carnelle Clifton was born in Winnsboro, South Carolina to Peter Clifton and Lelar Kinsler Clifton of Winnsboro, South Carolina.

After high school, Carnelle continued her education at North Carolina College (NCCU) in Durham, North Carolina.  In 1950, she became a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Alpha Chi Chapter and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in History.

Carnelle relocated to South Florida and thereafter, graduated with a Master of Science degree in Library Media and Information Technology from Nova Southeastern University in Davie, Florida.

In 1995, Carnelle joined Goodwill Presbyterian Church in Fort Pierce, Florida and was a faithful and dutiful member.  Carnelle served as an elder and treasurer for three consecutive terms.

For thirty-seven years, "CB", as she was affectionately called by peers and friends, was a dedicated Library Media Specialist in the St. Lucie County School District.  As an educator, "CB" was a mentor, encourager, motivator, friend and confidant known for championing family literacy and academic excellence.

Carnelle was an avid reader dedicated to sharing information with others and advocating for the St. Lucie County Library.  She faithfully served as President of the Friends of the Library and the Library Advisory Board.

Carnelle served the Fort Pierce community in various civic roles including as a charter member of the Eta Eta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., first elected as the Assistant Corresponding Secretary and President. Under her leadership the organization was recognized nationally for participation in United States Federal Initiative, Partnership in Math and Science Program (PIMS). On February 18, 2025, she became a Diamond Soror of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. serving over 65 years.  Additionally, she was a charter member of the Treasure Coast Chapter of The Links, Inc., serving as President, Membership Chair, and Treasurer.

Carnelle's life of service to her community exemplify love and service to others, the core of the Christian faith.

On Sunday, June 15, 2025, our heavenly father called Carnelle B. Clifton from labor to reward…

Left behind to cherish her memories are a son, Timothy Clifton (Teresa) of Winston Salem, North Carolina; sister, Christine C. Dixon of Douglasville, Georgia; niece, Tina Mari Clifton of New York, New York; nephews, Charles A. Clifton (Bada) of Elkridge, Maryland, Michael Clifton (Trisa) of Woodbridge, VA, and Arron Clifton of North Bethesda, MD; three Goddaughters, Nerissa Matthews of Ft .Pierce, Florida, Olga Cassanova of Palm Beach, Florida, and Arielle Jackson of Boynton Beach, Florida.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00am Wednesday, July 2, 2025 in Piedmont Memorial Gardens.