Clifford Oril Wingo

Clifford Oril Wingo, son of Clarence O. Wingo and Nellie Emmaline (Plaster) Wingo, was born May 4, 1930, in Seymour, and departed this life April 15, 2025, at his home in Mansfield, at the age of 94 years, 11 months,and 18 days. He was united in marriage to Jerlene (Jerrie) Chapman Wingo. To this union, four children were born.
He was preceded in death by his parents; infant son, Ricky Lee Wingo; brother, Willard Wingo; son-in-law, Doug Jones; and a niece, Debbie Wingo Stover. Clifford is survived by three daughters, Calleen Jones, of Mansfield, Kathy Angi and husband, Ken, of Lawrenceville, Ga.; and Paula Smith and husband, Rob, of Oklahoma City, Okla.; five grandchildren, Evan Jones, of Springfield; Colton Jones and wife, Chelsea, of Mansfield; Taylor Angi, of Lawrenceville, Ga.; Connor Angi and wife, Molly, of Lawrenceville, Ga.; and Maegan Smith, of Oklahoma City, Okla.; four great-grandchildren, Addison, Sikes, and Reece Jones, and Walker Angi; one sister, Willma Rains; one brother, Clay Wingo; nieces, Glenda Lara, Teresa Brooks and Carla Sue Kirkland; nephews, Clay Wingo Jr. and Randy Rains; numerous great nephews and nieces, other relatives, dear friends and the guys from the golf course. After graduating from Mansfield Schools in 1948, Clifford joined the service. He served four years during the Korean War as a Staff Sergeant in the Air Force. The first three years were spent at Tyndall Air Force Base in Panama City, Fla. His last year was spent at Kisarazu, Japan.  When Clifford came home, he worked a variety of jobs. Clifford, along with his brother, Willard, owned and operated the small café, Wingo’s Liberty Café, located on the north side of the square in Mansfield. His sister, Wilma, helped as a waitress. Clifford and Wilma also owned and operated Wingo’s Grocery. Clifford also became the Hospital Administrator of the Mansfield Community Hospital, was instrumental in helping with the building of the new Tri-County Hospital, and worked for the hospital in various capacities. After working at the hospital, Clifford changed directions and became a Mansfield City Police officer until his retirement in December of 1995. Clifford served as a city councilman for several terms, was instrumental in the construction of the Ann Short Community Center and the Mansfield Park Walking Trail. Clifford volunteered daily, receiving the State of Missouri Senior Citizen Award, presented by the Lieutenant Governor, for the most volunteer hours contributed in the state of Missouri.  Clifford was saved and baptized as a teenager. He went on to serve as Sunday School Superintendent of the Mansfield First Baptist Church, sung in the choir and taught Sunday School classes. Clifford loved all sports. He took up golf around age 32. He had a passion for the game, and in retirement, he played every day, weather permitting.  Over the years, Clifford shot a hole-in-one nine times. Clifford was also a St. Louis Cardinals fan. Clifford loved his family and loved spending time with them. Clifford was a kind, loving, and friendly individual who will be missed by many. Visitation and funeral services for Clifford Wingo were held Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at Craig-Hurtt Funeral Home, Mansfield.  Burial was in Mansfield City Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be made to Douglas A. Jones Memorial Scholarship in care of the funeral home. Online condolences: www.craighurttfuneralhome.com.