Thomas Edward Clipper

"Good-bye is the hardest thing to say to someone who means the world to you, especially when good-bye isn't what you wanted".

Thomas Edward Clipper, 70, received his wings on Sunday May 5th, 2019 at his home, surrounded by the unconditional love of his wife Mary E. Saxon-Clipper. Thomas, known by many as Tommy or TC, was born in Boyds, MD on January 13th, 1949 to Bernice Christine and James Bernard Clipper. Tommy was a precocious child by nature but had the biggest heart in the world. Tommy attended Montgomery County Public Schools and chose to find his own creative niche in the world by learning various trades and skills.

Growing up in Boyds, MD, or "Bucktown" as recalled by many, Tommy enjoyed being a child. Tommy could make anyone laugh but was also able to fight for what he believed in, and fight for those that he loved. Tommy gained a reputation as someone who stood his ground --- no matter what the consequence might have been.

Tommy became a master of his craft, which included (but not limited to) concrete, and was able to start his own business with many of his hometown friends. Tommy enjoyed working and working hard. Many say he would work from sun up to sun down, and do it all without complaining. He was a proud a man, but he was also humble.

Tommy was able to persevere through many trials and tribulations growing up. He did something that many probably never saw coming: he met the one woman who many credited with "saving" his life. He met a woman whom many have described as a "light in the darkness" that was once over him. In June of 1983, Tommy Clipper, and Mary E. Saxon become one. During the course of their marriage the two enjoyed traveling, hosting friends and family in their home, and they just enjoyed life! He was also an avid hunter, a love passed down to him by his own father, Jim Daddy.

There are many stories told about Tommy, but to actually know him was a blessing. Tommy was strong, determined, honest, humble, and he knew how to dress! Tommy enjoyed his hats, and shoes and took great pride in his appearance. He loved and believed in God, and attended the family church, St. Mark's United Methodist in the past. Tommy loved his home, and would often be content sitting in his basement with the dog. He was a home-body by nature, and was very selective with who he wanted to spend time with. Tommy was smart, smarter than most.

Tommy lived a full and rich life, a life that needed to come to an end. It is hard to say good-bye to someone who gave his all, and who touched and impacted so many lives. It is hard to say good-bye to a man who would do anything for his family.

Tommy is survived by his wife of 35 years, Mary E. Saxon-Clipper; their daughter, Eboni D. Clipper; oldest daughter, Felicia Clipper; grandson, Nicolas Clipper-Schools; sisters, Rev. Laverne Clipper-Thomas (William, Sr.) and Rosetta Ann "Mary" Clipper; brother, Ernest Eugene "Johnny bear" Clipper (Lutitia); nieces, Alexis Clipper, Shella' Chappell (Darryl), and Nicole Bayles (Ed); nephews, William Thomas, Jr. (Kerri) and Steven Hartgrove; and a host of great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, relatives, and friends near and far.