Henry “Jerry” Clifton III

Henry “Jerry” Clifton III, 79, passed away peacefully on March 23, 2026. He was born on March 14, 1947, in Beaumont, Texas, where he was also raised and spent his early years.

Jerry graduated from South Park High School, Class of 1965, and went on to attend Lamar University. A man of many talents and passions, he built a dynamic and creative life that touched many. He served as the tennis professional at the Beaumont Country Club and later shared his love for the sport as a tennis instructor at several summer camps in Hunt, Texas, where he formed lasting friendships and mentored countless young athletes.

Professionally, Jerry was a gifted photographer and entrepreneur. He owned and operated an advertising agency, combining his artistic eye with business acumen. His passion for photography also led him into academia, where he served as an adjunct professor of photography at Germanna Community College in Virginia, inspiring students with both his technical expertise and creative vision.

Jerry was also deeply engaged in politics and civic life, always eager to participate in meaningful discussions and contribute to his community.

He is survived by his daughters, Anne Pyron of Benton, Arkansas, and Laurie Phelan and her husband, Eric, of Mont Belvieu, Texas. He was a proud grandfather to Colton Phelan, Liam Phelan, Seth Wilson, Sean Phelan and his wife, Dani, and a great-grandfather to Ellie Mae Phelan, all of whom brought him immense joy.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Henry Jerry Clifton II and Erma Lee Brown Clifton and his son-in-law, Chris Pyron.

A gathering of family and friends will be held in Hunt, Texas, a place that held special meaning in his life.

Jerry will be remembered for his creativity, his love of tennis, his dedication to teaching, and the lasting impact he made on all that knew him.

His cremation arrangements were handled through Broussard’s Crematorium under the direction of Broussard’s, 1605 North Major Drive, Beaumont.