QUEENSBURY --- Clifford A. Royael, 91, of Surrey Fields Dr., died Friday, October 27, 2023, with loved ones by his side.

Born October 16, 1932, in Queens, N.Y., he was the son of the late Edward and Edith (Anderson) Royael.

Following graduation, Cliff served in the United States Army from October 1950 to September of 1953. He then went on to earn his bachelor's degree in history at Hofstra College in 1957 and later his law degree from Brooklyn Law School in 1962.

For most of Cliff's career he worked as an attorney for the State of New York, first with the Department of Social Services and then in the Office of the Attorney General, handling cases dealing with significant social services and health issues. His work included arguing a case in front of the U.S. Supreme Court during the tenure of Justice Thurgood Marshall.

After retirement, Cliff dedicated time to volunteering as a literacy coach, handling appeals for criminal cases, and as a guardian in family court. He also volunteered in a homeless shelter with family abuse victims and as a patient representative in a hospital. Cliff was also a Parishioner at Our Lady of the Annunciation in Queensbury.

Some of his many enjoyments included: travel, reading, listening to music, laughing, spending time with his amazing wife and family, crossword puzzles, the occasional game of pool, and relaxing in the evening with a martini.

On January 30, 1960, Clifford married the love of his life, Christine Marie Schlight, in Richmond Hill, Queens, N.Y.

Those left to cherish his memory are his devoted wife of 63 years, Christine M. Royael; his children, Clifford of Queensbury, Scott (Jacqui) of Glens Falls, and Melissa (Jerry) of San Francisco, CA; grandchildren, Rowan, Maya, Parker, Nora and Rocky.

Visitation will take place Friday, November 10 at 10:30 a.m. at Church of Our Lady of the Annunciation in Queensbury.

A memorial Mass will follow at 11 a.m. at the church with the Rev. Joseph Busch officiating.

A graveside ceremony will take place Monday, November 13 at 10:30 a.m. at Gerald B. H. Solomon National Cemetery, 200 Duell Rd., Schuylerville.

On behalf of Cliff, the family wishes to extend a sincere thank you to Svedka vodka, for making the last couple years bearable.

In loving memory of Clifford, contributions may be made to Double H Ranch, 97 Hidden Valley Rd., Lake Luzerne, N.Y. 12846 or through https://www.doublehranch.org/donate/

Condolences and floral arrangements may be sent directly to Baker Funeral Home, 11 Lafayette St., Queensbury, NY 12804, or through www.bakerfuneralhome.com.