Dr. Clifton is a lifelong resident of the state of Arkansas and was raised in Holly Grove, Arkansas. He attended Rhodes College in Memphis, where he earned a degree in Chemistry.

His medical training took place at the University of Arkansas Medical Center in Little Rock. Dr. Clifton earned his Doctor of Medicine degree in 1971. He then completed a one-year rotating internship and a four-year residency in ophthalmology that ended in 1976.

Dr. Clifton is board certified in ophthalmology by the American Academy of Ophthalmology. He specializes in general ophthalmology including cataract surgery, strabismus, lid surgery, and laser surgery.

Dr. Clifton and his wife San-Dee, live in Little Rock and have two sons, Blake and Kyle. Blake was born in 1976, graduated from Central High School and Davidson College, and works in private equity. Kyle was born in 1980, graduated from Central High School and Rhodes College, and works for Alltel.

Cliff and San-Dee attend Second Presbyterian Church, where Cliff has served as Sunday School Superintendent, Deacon, and Elder. Cliff, an Eagle Scout and Silver Beaver Recipient, has a lifetime activity in Boy Scouts, having been a Scoutmaster and currently serves on the Executive Board as Council Chairman of Advancement. Cliff, an ex-tennis player, has been bicycling for 15 years and enjoys long rides with friends. After cycling, working in the yard with Japanese Maples and Hydrangeas is a favorite activity. Cliff and San-Dee both love dogs and San-Dee is active in training dogs for obedience, hunt tests, agility, and tracking. They both enjoy duck hunting, especially with their golden retriever, Player.