Dale Clonts

Dale Clonts, beloved founder/Pastor of The Church at Safford and the Safford Christian School left his body of pain for his heavenly home on January 8, 2024.

Dale Clonts who styled himself as a "Cotton Picking Preacher" was the longest serving pastor of the Gila Valley with over 65 years of pastoral service.  By his own choice, he never accepted a salary but supported himself as a cotton farmer.  He served as Pastor at Grace Tabernacle in 1955.   Dale founded the leading "Church at Safford" in 1971 and the Safford Christian School in 1979.  Through his service to his Lord Jesus Christ and his kindness to all, there was hardly a person in the valley that he didn't know.  

Dale was a lifelong resident of the Gila Valley, born to Oklie Homer Clonts and Zelma Clonts in Safford on Dec 19, 1931. He graduated from Safford High in 1950 where he lettered in football.  Dale eventually took over his family farm after the untimely death of his father Oakley Homer Clonts in 1946.  He attended two years of Bible college at Grace and Glory Bible School in Kansas City Missouri along with his new wife Gayle in 1951-1953 but withdrew just before gradation as neither he nor Gayle wished to be in pastoral ministry.  God had better plans.  

"Pastor Dale" was recipient of the prestigious "Faith of the Fathers Award" from "Care Inc, Arizona" and served on the Solomon School Board.  Dale was also a private pilot who actually taught himself to fly in his old fabric skinned Taylor Craft, later moving on to more advanced planes.  He was ever in motion on his farm, turning wrenches, and long days driving tractor where he would memorize long sections of the Bible and compose sermons.  No matter how busy, Dale would come in sweaty from working outside, stop, and cheerfully receive those who daily came unannounced for pastoral guidance.  He set a truly amazing example of self sacrifice to many.

Dale's memory will be cherished by his surviving family and many friends. He was preceded in death by his high school sweetheart and wife of 63 years,  Gayle Clonts in 2014, and his son Randy Clonts in 2018.

Dale is survived by his loving wife Reggie Clonts, and three children, Dana Doshier, Teri Lineberger, and Rick Clonts, as well as 14 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren.  Dale's deep love for family extended to his siblings Dillard Clonts, Donnie Clonts, Truman Clonts (Galen Hively), and Lolene Brandau.

Dale Clonts' story is one of unwavering faith and boundless love. His compassion touched the hearts of many, leaving an indelible mark on those who were fortunate enough to know him. His memory will live on as we celebrate the profound impact he made during his time with us.

A visitation to honor Dale's life will take place on Wednesday, January 17, 2024, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at McDougal's Caldwell Funeral Chapel located at 112 E Main Street in Safford, Arizona.  A visititation will take place at 1:00 p.m. with the funeral services and fellowship meal to be held on Thursday, January 18th at 2:00 p.m. at The River Church.

Arrangements are being cared for by McDougal's Caldwell Funeral Chapel located at 112 E. Main Street, Safford, Arizona 85546. 928-428-1740.