Cynthia C. Clifford of Dedham and Braintree, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on February 28, 2024, at the age of 82. Born on October 15, 1941, in New Bedford, she was the daughter of the late Redenso and Sarah Castaldo. Raised by her stepfather, the late Oscar Metivier, whom she lovingly referred to as "her real dad," Cynthia grew up alongside her late sister, Annette Leandro.
Beloved wife of the late Dan Clifford Sr., Cynthia was a devoted mother to Dan Clifford Jr. and his wife Linda Shih (now of Oakland, California) and to Deborah Clifford of Brooklyn, New York. She was also an adoring grandmother to Zack and Tayla Clifford, affectionately and accurately known as "the child whisperer" to those who witnessed her genuine connection with children. She also leaves behind her much loved sister-in-law Noreen Bruce.
Cynthia attended New Bedford Vocational High School, fondly nicknamed "Voke" by its students. Alongside her friends Connie and Irene, she formed an inseparable trio known as the "three musketeers." High school became a cherished chapter in her life, where she discovered her passion for sewing. Cynthia's skill extended to crafting gowns for her stepfather's wedding, sewing skirts for Friday night dances at the Y downtown, and designing her graduation gown.
Her journey continued at Lemuel Shattuck Hospital Nursing School in New Bedford. After graduation, she got a job at Shattuck Hospital where she worked tirelessly, eventually becoming an operating room nurse. She gained a reputation for being a caring and compassionate nurse. More importantly, lifelong friendships with Ellen, Phyllis, Carol, and Kathy began and blossomed during her time at Shattuck. All four were at her bedside in her final days.
In 1968, she met the love of her life, Dan Clifford. A year later, they married on May 4, 1969, enjoying 53 happy years together, devoted to raising their children and delighting in their grandchildren.
When Dan and Debbie were growing up, the Clifford house was the “go-to” house for friends after school and on weekends. Cynthia would gladly welcome friends and provide plenty of snacks. Somehow Cynthia would enjoy (or at least tolerate) hosting 10+ teenagers at the house at any given time. She was like a second mom to many of these “kids” and continued to be in touch and followed their successes throughout their adult lives.
After her children went away to college, Cynthia applied her "child whisperer" talents as a nanny for Glenn and Molly, spending over 15 years helping raise their children, Janna and Matt, and when their family expanded, Jackson and Eliza, who continued to keep in touch with her to this day.
Cynthia's generosity extended beyond her immediate family — she was highly supportive, always offering words of encouragement and assistance. She rarely missed an opportunity to send a birthday card. Or a St. Patrick’s Day card. Or a Halloween card. Always putting others first, she volunteered at her kids' elementary school and crafted gifts for neighbors at Christmas. Always a nurse, for years she made consistent trips to visit and care for her dad, as well as many other relatives, in New Bedford.
Toward the end of her life, she moved to Benchmark Senior Living in Hanover where she became a favorite among both the staff and residents. She enjoyed many new friendships at Benchmark. She also participated in many activities during her time there, often trying to help the activity coordinators if she felt they were taking on too much work on their own.
Cynthia will be sorely missed, leaving behind a legacy of love, compassion, and selflessness.
Visiting hours will be held on Friday, March 8, from 4:00 to 7:00 pm at P.E. Murray - F.J. Higgins, George F. Doherty & Sons Funeral home in West Roxbury, 2000 Centre Street. Funeral from the funeral home on Saturday, March 9th at 10am, followed by a Funeral Mass at St. Theresa of Avila Church, West Roxbury at 11am. Relatives and friends kindly invited. Interment in the St. James Section of St. Joseph Cemetery, with a reception to follow.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a cause that Cynthia Clifford long supported, the Wounded Warrior Project (https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org/)