SETH ROBBINS CLIFFORD

BRANDON — Seth Robbins Clifford, 86, passed away peacefully at home on June 13, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Seth was devoted to his family. Just two days before his passing, he would have celebrated his 65th wedding anniversary with his beloved wife, Kerry, who preceded him in death. Together they built a life centered on love, family, friendship, and adventure.

Born May 29, 1940, in Brandon, Vt., Seth spent his childhood there and split his high school years between Tilton School in New Hampshire and Brandon High School. He remained proud of his Brandon roots throughout his life, maintaining lifelong friendships with many classmates and friends. Seth was a hardworking entrepreneur and a familiar face to generations of Brandon-area residents. He owned and operated the Sears Catalogue Merchant Store and later the National Five & Dime Store. Following those years, and often holding down three jobs at once, he worked alongside family at Allen Pools & Spas in Rutland.

Many who knew Seth will fondly remember the soft hum of a tune that often accompanied him as he worked, one of the many small things that made him unforgettable. For more than 30 years, Seth drove a school bus for the Otter Valley School District. He transported students to and from school, drove hundreds of athletic trips and field trips — including overnight adventures — and became a familiar and trusted presence for generations of local families. Students and parents alike appreciated his friendly smile and dependable nature.

Seth dedicated countless hours to serving his community. He was a founding member of the Brandon Area Rescue Squad, a volunteer firefighter and first responder, a long-time member of the Brandon Congregation Church, a selectboard member and chair, a 54-year Justice of the Peace who married hundreds of couples, a legal guardian for several individuals in need, and for more than 50 years served as treasurer of Brandon Fire District No. 1.

When he was not working, Seth enjoyed skiing, hiking, traveling, and sharing adventures with family and friends. He spent countless hours on the sidelines of his children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events. Whether traveling on vacation, taking a scenic train ride, or gathering with loved ones, he found joy in time spent together.

Seth will be remembered for his kindness, gentle humor, strong work ethic, and unwavering love for those around him. The family finds comfort in imagining Seth and Kerry reunited after years apart.

He was predeceased by his loving wife, Kerry Allen Clifford; an infant son, Seth Allen Clifford; his mother, Catherine Robbins Clifford; his father, Allen Comfort Clifford; and a sister, Roberta Bird. He is survived by his sister Elizabeth Sears; his brother in-law Edward Allen; his children, Cara Nelson (Jonathan), Derrick Clifford (Missy), Seth Charles Clifford (Christa), and Amity Robichaud (Michael); his grandchildren, Catherine, Trinity, Ezra, Eben, Carl, Isaac, Jacob, Yireh, Nehemiah, Moses, and Maranatha; his great-grandchildren, Camilla and Lillian; and many extended family members and dear friends.

A celebration of Seth’s life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to Relay for Life to the “Neshobe School and Friends” team, Brandon Area Rescue Squad, or Brandon Fire Department.

Arrangements by Miller & Ketcham of Brandon. ◊