James "Clifton" Pendergrass, 87, of Franklin, went home to be with Jesus on Sunday, January 7, 2024.

He was born in Macon County, the son of the late Alex and Iler Roper Pendergrass. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Helen Bertilee Barnes Pendergrass; son, Ronald Nicklos "Nick" Pendergrass; two sisters, Lucille Ray, and Pauline Pendergrass; and three brothers, Grady, Alexander, and Harrison Pendergrass. Clifton was a lifelong resident of Macon County and a member of Community Baptist Church. He enjoyed reading, watching baseball; especially the Atlanta Braves, and playing his guitar.

He is survived by his daughter, Cliftney Sterling and her husband, Jesse of Franklin; son, Jeff Pendergrass and his wife Joy of Franklin; and one sister, Rita McCoy of Franklin. Cliff is also survived by his four grandsons, Brian Sterling (Shane), Tyler Pendergrass (Tiffany), Jarrett Sterling (Jazmine), and Evan Sterling; five great grandchildren, Kevin, Kathryne, Elliot, Lana, and Marnie; and several nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be at 6pm on Thursday, January 11 in the Chapel of Macon Funeral Home. Rev. Alan Waters will officiate.

The family will receive friends from 5pm to 6pm, one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Hospice House Foundation of WNC, PO Box 815, Franklin, NC 28744.

Online condolences can be made at www.maconfuneralhome.com.

Macon Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.