Reverend Clifford Alfred Riis

It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of Reverend Clifford Alfred Riis on May 11, 2024, in Manassas, VA. Pastor Riis was born on October 6, 1926, in Floral Park, New York. He served his country honorably in the United States Army initially in the Horse Calvery and later on in the Philippines during World War II. After returning home, he completed his bachelor’s degree and then followed his calling to become a minister. It was during his time at seminary, when he met the love of his life, Jean McLean. They married June 20, 1953, and lived happily together until his passing. 

Cliff and Jean started their life together by moving to South Carolina. They loved the state and spent the next 60 years building his ministry. His preaching of the Gospel and his counsel touched too many lives to count.

More than his dedication to serving the Lord, Cliff loved his family. He and Jean had two children: James and Anne. Cliff never missed a chance to let his wife and children know he loved them. He passed that same love and devotion on to his grandsons and is fondly remembered for always being easy to talk to, silly jokes, and funny stories about life in the Army. His affection and pride for his family knew no bounds. 

Cliff was also an inspired storyteller and created many fanciful stories for his children growing up. Later in life, he wrote his stories down and spent countless hours at local schools reading to the children during story time. 

He is survived by his wife, Jean Mclean Riis, by his son, James McLean Riis and wife Beth, by his daughter, Anne Riis Jacobs, and by his grandsons: Joshua Edward Jacobs, Connor McLean Jacobs, and Andrew McLean Riis. He is also honored by his “second” son, Retired Colonel Clifford Robert Lockwood Jr., who will present an American Flag to Jean in appreciation of his military service. The funeral service will be held at St. Johannes Lutheran Church, Charleston, SC, at 11:00 AM June 29, 2024. Visitation will precede the service in the Parish Hall at 10:00 AM. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks you make a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in memory of Rev. Clifford Riis, in honor of his grandson, Joshua Jacobs.