Clifford Happy

Clifford Happy, 51, of Hot Springs Village died Tuesday, September 30, 2014. He was born in Alberta, Canada on June 10, 1963 but grew up in Jacksonville, Florida. Serving in the US Marine Corps for 22 years from 1981-2003 and rising to the rank of First Sergeant, Cliff spent time on every continent on Earth but Antarctica. Cliff met the love of his life, Georgia, when he was only 22. Married since 1989, they raised three remarkable children -- Ashlee, Jonathan, and Jacob -- about whom he spoke proudly every day. Adding to the family's joy is grandson Mason, six. Cliff is preceded in death by his father, Henry Happy. He is survived by his mother, Lorraine Jean (Wehrhahn) Happy; wife Georgia Happy both of Hot Springs Village; sons LTJG Jonathan Happy of Norfolk, Virginia and Jacob Happy of Hot Springs Village; daughter Ashlee (Happy) Chapman (Matthew) of Abilene, Texas; grandson Mason Chapman; brother Michael Happy (Julie) of Jacksonville, Florida and all the other family and friends who loved him dearly. He earned bachelors and master's degrees in history from Texas A&M University. After retirement from the Marines, Cliff used his education to better the lives of others. He taught sixth grade at Texas Middle School in Texarkana, Texas from 2003-2006 and American Studies, US Government, and a wide range of social science classes at the Arkansas School for Mathematics Sciences and the Arts in Hot Springs from 2006 until his death. During his time at ASMSA he was also the sponsor of the school's award-winning Model UN team. At both schools he was respected and beloved by students and colleagues alike. An omnivorous reader and inventive workaholic, Cliff found time to write eight novels when he wasn't traveling the world again, this time with his treasured family. His giving heart led him to become an organ donor, and because of Cliff's selflessness four lives were saved this week. In addition, an unknown number of lives have been improved and enhanced with his tissue and cornea donations. A memorial service will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, October 4, 2014 at First Baptist Church of Hot Springs with Pastor John McCallum officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or Toys for Tots. Guests may register at www.caruth-hale.com.