Devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, Elaine Parise Clifford passed away peacefully on July 9, 2026, at the age of 88.
Elaine was born on April 22, 1938, in New Haven, Connecticut, to the late Dominic and Mary (Scalabrino) Parise. She lost her mother at a young age but was fortunate her aunt Florence Parise stepped in as a significant figure in her life. From an early age, her remarkable intelligence was evident. Academically gifted, she skipped two grades and excelled throughout her education. After graduating, she began a career in the insurance industry, where her talent, dedication, and work ethic quickly earned her advancement.
Elaine married the love of her life, Daniel Clifford, and together they shared 59 wonderful years of marriage while raising their family in Orange, Connecticut. She made the heartfelt decision to leave her career to devote herself to raising their two sons, Daniel and Michael. She poured her heart into her family, volunteered at their schools, and created a warm, loving home filled with kindness, encouragement, and unwavering support.
As her sons grew older, Elaine returned to the insurance industry with Equitable Life, where she once again distinguished herself through her professionalism and success while working in both the Milford, Connecticut, and New York City offices.
While Elaine found great fulfillment in her successful career, nothing brought her more joy than the love she held for her family. Her sons were the light of her life, a source of immeasurable pride and devotion. She embraced her daughters-in-law, Catherine and Ruth, as her own from the moment they entered her life. Throughout every chapter of life, she remained a steadfast source of support, encouragement, and unconditional love.
As a grandmother, Elaine was simply extraordinary. Whether babysitting, attending recitals, cheering from the sidelines at games, or preparing home-cooked meals, she was always there. Family often joked that she was one of the world's worst drivers, but that never stopped her from making the trip to visit her grandchildren, cook dinner, lend a helping hand, and remind everyone just how deeply they were loved. Her presence brought comfort, laughter, and a sense of home wherever she went.
Elaine leaves behind a legacy of extraordinary kindness, generosity of spirit, quiet strength, and unwavering devotion to those she loved. She is survived by her sons, Daniel Clifford and his wife, Catherine, and Michael Clifford and his wife, Ruth; and by her cherished grandchildren, Meghan, Kevin, Julia, Emma, and Patrick, each of whom brought her immeasurable pride and happiness.
She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Daniel Clifford; her brother, Anthony Parise; and her sister, Constance Grenon.
Elaine's love, wisdom, generosity, and steadfast devotion to her family will continue to live on in all who were fortunate enough to know her.
In accordance with Elaine's wishes, funeral services will be private and held with her immediate family. The family is grateful for the love, prayers, and support they have received during this difficult time.
Those wishing to honor the memory of Elaine may consider a donation to the American Macular Degeneration Foundation https://www.macular.org.
To leave online condolences, please visit our website at www.codywhitefuneralservice.com
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