Jeffery Bernard Clarkson

On September 10, 1976, in Joliet, Illinois, Jeffrey Clarkson was born with a light that would one day brighten countless lives. On February 23, 2026, that light transitioned from this earth, but the warmth of his presence will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Jeffrey was the beloved son of Danielle Cornelious and the cherished son of Lester Bovia. He was a devoted husband to Jennifer Clarkson, a proud and loving father to his sons, Noah Puralewski and Malicah Clarkson, and a caring stepfather to Mauntice Graca. His greatest joy in life was his family. As a dedicated stay-at-home dad, Jeffrey embraced fatherhood with pride, patience, and purpose. He poured his time, energy, and heart into raising his children, ensuring they felt supported, protected, and deeply loved.

Jeffrey was preceded in death by his cherished grandparents, Margie Woods and Carl Cornelious, whose love and guidance helped shape the man he became.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving mother, bonus dad, his wife, his children, his grandfather, Floyd Woods; his sisters, Tiffany (Paul) McCalister and Natasha (Garrick) Payton ; a special aunt, Denise(Jerry) King; six nieces, two nephews, one great-niece, two great-nephews; and a host of other aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members, and friends who will forever hold him close in their hearts.

Jeffrey was funny as ever — the kind of man who truly never met a stranger. If you crossed his path, you were likely to leave with a story, a smile, or both. He would give you the shirt off his back without hesitation. His laughter was infectious, his smile constant, and his love unwavering. Jeffrey laughed often and loved hard.

He enjoyed playing the game and sharing stories, often starting with his famous phrases, “See, the thing is…” or “That one time when I was in DC…” — and everyone knew they were in for a memorable moment. His storytelling, humor, and natural warmth made him the heart of many gatherings.

Jeffrey’s legacy is one of generosity, devotion, and joy. He showed us what it means to love without limits, to care without conditions, and to live with a smile no matter the circumstance. Though he is no longer physically with us, the lessons he taught, the laughter he shared, and the love he gave will continue to live on through his family and all who were blessed to know him.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

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