Clifford "Shorty" Rector

CLIFFORD RECTOR

Clifford “Shorty” Rector, 73, of South Pittsburg, Tennessee, was called home on Thursday, April 16, 2026. Born on December 18, 1952, in Jasper, Tennessee, he was the son of Houston Lee Rector and Odell McBee Rector.  Clifford built his life around hard work, family, and the simple joys that made him who he was.   He spent many years on the road as a truck driver, a job that suited his steady nature and strong work ethic. No matter how far his travels took him, his heart was always with his family. He loved them deeply and cherished every moment spent together.  He had a passion for working with his hands, whether he was under the hood of a car, strumming his guitar, or singing a tune. NASCAR held a special place in his heart, especially Talladega. These were the things that brought him joy and reflected the spirit of a man who lived fully and loved wholeheartedly.  Clifford Rector was the sweetest man.  He never had a harsh word for anyone.  He was a great dad who raised 2 children after his wife passed away.  He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and memories that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Clifford is preceded in death by his father, Houston Lee Rector; mother, Odell McBee Rector; wife, Patricia Ann Jones Rector; son, Cliff Rector, Jr.; and brother, Tommy Rector.

Left to cherish his memories are his daughter, Christie Rector; stepdaughters, Amber (Josh) Talley, Tasha (Michael) Davis; special friend, Bonnie Wooten; grandchildren, Dakota Brown, Madison (Dakota) Jordan, Kadin Rector, Riley Tate, Eastin Rector, Madison Talley, Jayden Talley, Katie Talley; 4 great grandchildren; brother-in-law, Bo Jones; niece and nephew; other family members and friends; special friends, Wayne Higgins, Butch Sitz, and Mike Shelton.

Visitation is on Monday, April 20, 2026, from 2:00 to 8:00 pm CST and on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, from 1:00 to 3:00 pm CST at Tate Funeral Home in Jasper, Tennessee.

Funeral services are on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at 3:00 pm CST in the Chapel of Tate Funeral Home in Jasper, Tennessee with Pastor Roger Webb officiating.

Clifford will be laid to rest on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at Charoline’s Chapel in Whitwell, Tennessee immediately following the funeral service.

Pallbearers are Kadin Rector, Josh Talley, Billy Talley, Dakota Brown, Riley Tate and David Brown.

Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Tate Funeral Home, LLC, 950 Mel Dixon Lane, Jasper, Tennessee 37347, 423-942-9500.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.tatefh.com.

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