Affirmation: Gay & Lesbian Mormons

WHO
WE ARE

ESPECIALLY
FOR YOU

EVENTS
& NEWS

RESOURCES
& LINKS

BECOME
INVOLVED


DONATE

Clifford Barnes

Clifford R. Barnes (July 8, 1927 - April 6, 1993)

(Adapted from Affinity, April 1993, page 4.)

Cliff Barnes, one of the great giants of Affirmation for many years, died April 7, 1993. Anyone who knew him will never forget him and he will forever be part of the soul of Affirmation.

Cliff came to Affirmation in 1978 and until ill health of the last couple years was always very involved in the organization. In Los Angeles he served as Chapter Director, Board member and most every other calling, including social director-the greatest any chapter has ever had.

For several years he organized and produced some of the most wonderful, outrageous and fun socials ever. He also served in positions in the national organization. In 1988 Cliff received Affirmation's highest award, the Mortensen Award, for leadership and service.

Cliff went on a mission and later received a Ph.D. in music from USC. He was a professor of music at BYU and other universities for several years. After moving to California he taught music privately and was a music critic for several newspapers.

Cliff remained active in Church callings all his life—something somewhat unusual for an openly gay man.

His musical talents were what really set Cliff apart in Affirmation. He truly brought quality to music in the organization and with the best talent available. He contributed his musical gift to some of our best national conferences.

Cliff was a man of great love, talent, integrity, honesty and spirituality. Very few people have dedicated themselves so completely to service in Affirmation. When it comes to love and service Cliff is at the top of the list.

Over 20 Affirmation friends were among those who attended a memorial service for him at the Glendale California stake center on April 12th. We will always remember his great wit and unique and charming personality. He was one of a kind.