Toby Clifton

Zola Mae “Toby” Clifton, 89, of Centralia passed away Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at Centralia Manor. She was born on May 31, 1936, in Centralia, the daughter of Rev. James Verle and Julia Helen (Sinclair) Clifton.

Toby is survived by her many special nieces and nephews; sister-in-law, Phyllis Clifton; extended family members, and friends. They will remember her for her love, generosity, and service to others.

Toby was preceded in death by her parents, Rev. James and Julia Clifton; her siblings, Ellis Clifton, Ernie Clifton Sr. and wife Lois, Bob Clifton Sr., and Jerry Clifton Sr. and wife Nina; sisters, Thelma Eagan and husband Harley, Jane McClain and husband Ivan, and Mary Lou Beckemeyer and husband Bill.

Toby lived her entire life on Patterson Street in Central City, in the home her Dad built. She graduated from Centralia High School in 1955. Three weeks later, she began working at Forest City Garment Factory in Centralia. In 1969, she began a 28 year career as a union organizer with the International Ladies Garment Workers Union. Her district spanned 24 states. In addition to traveling frequently for work, she lovingly cared for her mother for the seven years she resided in a nursing home. Toby retired to Las Vegas and enjoyed 22 fun filled years. She took on part-time work as a caregiver with Visiting Angels. She was hired because of the experience she gained while caring for her mother. Toby never had children, but was always grateful to be blessed with many wonderful nieces and nephews. Toby was a faithful follower of Jesus and member of the First General Baptist Church in Centralia.

A celebration of life service will be held at 12:00 p.m. Saturday, January 31, 2026, at the First General Baptist Church in Centralia with Pastor Bryan Bennett officiating. Graveside service will be held at a later date at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Centralia. Relatives and friends are welcome to visiting hours from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the service on Saturday at the church in Centralia. Memorials may be made in Toby’s honor to First General Baptist Church’s general fund. Online condolences and memories of Toby may be shared with her family by visiting maczfuneralhomes.com. Online condolences may be shared with the family by visiting maczfuneralhomes.com and/or on the funeral home’s Facebook page.

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