Iona Ruffin Clanton

Iona R. Clanton, age 82 of Portsmouth, VA was born on March 25, 1934 in Pleasant Hill, NC and fell asleep in death, July 5, 2016 at Maryview Medical Center. Iona moved to Newport News in 1949 with her parents, Gracie and Charlie Nixon, Jr. Iona was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Alphonso T. Clanton and her sisters, Willie Mae Spellman and Ruby N. Boisseau. Remaining family members who cherish her memory are her half-sister, Ethel Futrell; one daughter, Laverne (David), five sons, Donald T. Clanton (Yvonne), John K. Clanton (Darlene), Anthony Clanton, Wayne Clanton and Lynn Clanton. Also there are grandchildren, Ashonti, Kimberly, Lorenzo, Kevin, LaCretia, and Michel Jamal. Iona also leaves behind great grandchildren, a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, two brothers-in-law and many dear friends. Iona was an excellent example of a Christian wife and mother with a quiet and mild spirit. She was known for their friendly smile and she loved serving. Her children fondly remember spending many, many hours searching through fabrics and patterns at local shopping centers. Iona served Jehovah faithfully since her baptism on July 3, 1951. She was a member of Victory congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Portsmouth, VA. She enjoyed and loved helping people in the community become familiar with the good news of God’s Kingdom. She displayed the “pioneer spirit” by taking time to vacation pioneer and later auxiliary pioneer from time to time. Even when her health was failing she could be seen going from door to door, despite in a wheelchair. Iona was known for faithfully attending meetings, assemblies and conventions, even when she was heavy with child, returning home just in time to give birth. Later in years from her sick-bed, she looked forward to listening in via telephone to encouraging talks, comments and demonstrations presented by the local congregation and she greatly enjoyed and appreciated Jehovah’s provision of JW broadcasting. We will miss her kind, generous and caring spirit. Her works will not be forgotten by us and most importantly, Jehovah will not forget her works. Special thanks to her caregivers who really extended themselves in the care and concerns of Iona during her failing health.

Iona Ruffin Clanton

March 25, 1934 - July 5, 2016