Clifford L. Augustine Sr.

It is with great sadness for the loss and gratitude for his life that we announce the transitioning from this life of Clifford Louis Augustine Sr., at times called “Padre”, “Amigo” and “Brother Cliff” by friends.

Cliff leaves behind his wife Elma Whittaker-Augustine, children Kafara Augustine of the Cayman Islands, Clifford “Ras Pin” Augustine of Hopkins Village and Karena Augustine-Plepel of Oak Park Illinois, two grandchildren, James and Sophia Plepel and son-in-law James Plepel. He was also very close to his in-laws William “Junior” Whittaker, Rosie Whittaker-Myles, Wendell Whittaker, Alvin “Mas” Whittaker and Wayne Whittaker and their family. Cliff is also survived by his uncle, Paul Casimiro of Hopkins Village, his nieces, and nephews, and several cousins including Conrad Lewis, Jessie and Russell Nunez and Dr. Ted Aranda.

Cliff is predeceased by his parents Luke and Candida Augustine, siblings Margaret Augustine-Aranda and Dudley Augustine and brother in-law James Aranda.

In addition to his family, Cliff loved Belize. His chief interests were politics, theology, and philosophy-he earned a degree in all three. He was an avid reader who in addition to his many books looked forward to his weekly Amandala newspaper from Belize in the mail. Cliff also spent most of his life trying to logically understand God via books while his wife constantly reminded him that God can also be known experientially, in daily experiences. 

After the priesthood, Cliff was a banana farmer who served as chairman of the Banana Control Board in Cow Pen, he also engaged in a political campaign for Stann Creek Rural. In the U.S. he was an instructor for many years with Malcom X City College and Spanish Coalition for Jobs. Cliff was also a strong advocate for social equity and justice. Cliff was loved and respected by all who knew him. 

Cliff’s passing ends a Belizean love story with his wife of almost 48 years. His wife, children, other relatives, and friends in Belize, Cayman Islands and U.S.A. will miss his pleasant personality and his singing while preparing fry jack and johnny cake. His last words to his children were to live for others. Cliff’s life has changed but is not ending, death is just a transition. 

A mass of celebration and goodbye for Cliff Augustine will be held in Belize at a future date. 

Ayo (goodbye) brother Cliff! The drums of your father will beat on and on. We love you. 

Drums of my Fathers

of my Grandfathers

of my Ancestors

Drumming in my psyche

Souls of my Fathers Drum! Beat! Beat On! Drum On! AND ON!!!

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