Clarence Clayton Kirksey, Sr., passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at his home surrounded by his family. He was born September 2, 1939, in Sunflower County to Johnnie Robert Kirksey and Callie Frances Burchfield Kirksey.  Clarence lived his whole life in the delta and for the last 55 years in the Delta.  He worked as a Machine Fixer for 43 years at Greenville Mills Carpet.  Clarence worked many years on the farm and enjoyed "playing in the dirt" until his last breath.  He loved his family, enjoyed his garden, and enjoyed riding the delta and studying all the crops.  Affectionally known as Big Daddy, he decided years ago that he wanted his grandkids to call him Big Daddy after hearing that in a movie.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Verland "Boots", Charlie, and John; sisters, Frances Roncali, Bobbie Wheeler, and Yvonne Myers; his wife of 65 years, Mary Juanice "Niecie" King Kirksey; and daughters, Sheree Renee Kirksey and DeeDee Melton.

Clarence is survived by his daughter, Terrie Kirksey of Arlington, TN; son, Clay Kirksey (Linda) of Indianola; son-in-law, Allen Melton of Heber Springs, AR; brothers, George of Indianola, Billy of Brandon; and sister, Yvette Correro of Greenville; 5 Grandchildren, Matthew (Josie) Kirksey of Texas, Whitney (Daniel) Tate of Texas, Justin Melton of Arkansas, Rachel Kirksey of Texas, and Tabatha (Brandon) Rackley of  Arkansas; and

10 Great Grands, Gia Kirksey, Vincent Kirksey, Micah Kirksey, Declan Kirksey, Leona Rackley, Scarlette Rackley, Stella Rackley, Remington Rackley, Weston Rackley, Tatum Santos, and Brooks Tate coming in June.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, March 25, 2025, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Burton Funeral Home in Indianola. The funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m., with Rev. Arnold Amason officiating. Burial will follow in Indianola City Cemetery. Burton Funeral Home of Indianola has been entrusted with arrangements.