Cleveland State University College of Law mourns the passing of Chief Magistrate Judge Gregory F. Clifford '80, a distinguished alumnus, Hall of Fame member, and deeply respected leader in the Cleveland legal community. Chief Magistrate Clifford served the Cleveland Municipal Court for decades beginning in 1986, including as Chief Magistrate from 2001, and was known for his integrity, steady leadership, and enduring commitment to public service. He was devoted to CSU Law throughout his career, serving as a member of the College of Law's Board of Visitors and a mentor to generations of students. He also was a life member, longtime trustee and President (2017-18) of the Cleveland State University Law Alumni Association (CSULAA). Among the many recognitions of his contributions, he was inducted into the CSU Law Hall of Fame, recognized as the CSULAA Alumni of the Year, and received the CSU Distinguished Alumni for Public Service Award.
Chief Magistrate Clifford's impact on our law school was especially profound through his work helping students find community and opportunity. He played an instrumental role in founding the CSULAA Minority Outreach Committee, which helped recruit and mentor minority law students and prepare them to succeed as lawyers. He was a consistent presence at the law school and a kind friend to many of us. His leadership and service strengthened both our institution and the broader legal profession.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife, Karen, and to the entire Clifford family.
Services (as arranged by the family). Details available via legacy.com
- Friday, March 6, 2026 - Service, 1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
E. F. Boyd & Son Funeral Home and Crematory - Main Location, 2165 East 89th Street William F. Boyd Sr. Way, Cleveland, OH 44106 - Friday, March 6, 2026 - Service, 5:30 p.m.
E. F. Boyd & Son Funeral Home and Crematory - Main Location, 2165 East 89th Street William F. Boyd Sr. Way, Cleveland, OH 44106 - Saturday, March 7, 2026 - Wake, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
St. Aloysius Catholic Church, 10932 St. Clair Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44108 - Saturday, March 7, 2026 - Funeral Mass, 11:00 a.m.
St. Aloysius Catholic Church, 10932 St. Clair Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44108