Clifton “Cliff” Throneberry, Jr.

 

Clifton “Cliff” Throneberry, Jr., 88, of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully in his sleep on November 1, 2024, at home beside his beloved wife of 71 years, Emma. Born to Elihue Clifton and Ollie Beatrice Throneberry (Minor) on April 10, 1936, in Wartrace, Tennessee, Cliff learned the values of hard work and determination early on, principles that would guide him throughout his life.

Cliff served in the U.S. Air Force, where he excelled as Military Police. After his service, he embarked on a career in the pipeline industry, learning to weld while working in Iraq. He had the opportunity to perfect his craft while being an involuntary guest during the Iran-Iraq War. Upon returning to the states he joined the Pipeliners Union. For over more than four decades, his unwavering commitment led him to serve, and by earning the respect of his peers, he lead the Union members as the Business Manager of the Pipeliners Local Union 798 and as Vice President of the United Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters.

Always eager to innovate, Cliff passionately embraced his entrepreneurial spirit. He ventured into horse breeding and racing, gaining a reputation for raising prestigious American Quarter horses for over 20 years. He was also a pioneer in the entertainment industry, as a founding member of Entertainment Plus, where they owned and operated multiple Major Video stores in Oklahoma. That grew into over twenty Blockbuster Video franchises throughout Arkansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma. Those stores became favorite neighborhood destinations for friends and families, bringing joy to his community.

Cliff was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His faith as a dedicated Christian and member of the Church of Christ was central to his life. Known for being tough but fair, he embodied the principle of working hard to play harder. An avid runner and golfer, he also enjoyed playing Texas Hold’em poker. The warmth of Cliff’s generous spirit was evident in his unwavering care for others throughout his life.

After battling Parkinson’s disease for 28 years, Cliff sought to give back even in death. He donated his brain to the Mayo Clinic for Parkinson’s research, hoping to aid others in their struggles. He also gifted his body and organs to science, wishing to contribute to further advancements.

Cliff is survived by his beloved wife, Emma, and their children, Mike Throneberry (Mickie) and Cheryl McCloud (Jeff). He cherished his grandchildren, Amy Neely (Ryan) and Jon-Michael  Throneberry (Lacy), and the joy they brought him through their children: Elliot, Emmalynn, and Everly Neely. He was filled with pride at the news of a new Baby Throneberry on the way. Cliff is remembered by his sisters, Jane Alexander and Joyce Henderson, as well as step-grandchildren Trey Dobson, Anthony McCloud, and Allyson Farrell.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Francis Morrow, and beloved son Steve Throneberry. The family extends special thanks to Denise Jones for her compassionate care, which greatly impacted Cliff and Emma’s lives.

Cliff’s life embodied the American dream—a testament to hard work, dedication, and generosity. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.

At this time services are pending. In lieu of flowers, the family requests charitable contributions in memory of Cliff Throneberry be made to Brain Support Network, PO Box 7264, Menlo Park, CA 94026, www.brainsupportnetwrok.org. or to the Pipeliners Voluntary Fund at the Local 798 Office, PO Box 470798, Tulsa, OK 74147