It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Clifford William Bird, a
gentle soul, a proud father, a devoted family man, and a humble dreamer, who has left a
void in the hearts of all who knew him. Born December 5,1945 in Brisbane, Australia, to
Willaim and Stephanie Bird, Clifford lived a simple life filled with profound wonder and a
deep appreciation for life's simple pleasures. He cared deeply about his family and will
be profoundly missed by his two beautiful daughters, one grandson and his extended
family. He passed away peacefully on September 27, 2025 at the age of 79.
Cliff approached the world with a sense of childlike wonder and a persistent twinkle in
his eyes. He never lost his ability to dream. His compassion extended to all of God's
creatures, and his love for all life was well-known. He was a spiritual man with a great
love of God. His gentle spirit and loving presence will be remembered forever.
A lifelong artist and author with several published works, his creative spirit was
boundless. Beyond his creative pursuits, he was a dedicated student of Asian and
Korean culture, and this interest was a key part of his celebrated career. His passion for
learning was a constant thread throughout his life and only matched by his dedication to
the martial arts.
A decorated martial artist, Clifford was a certified Master Instructor of traditional Korean
Tae Kwon Do and a member of the World Tae Kwon Do Federation. His dedication
earned him a 5th-degree black belt and induction into the USA Martial Arts Hall of
Fame. As the owner and instructor of Song Choe College of Tae Kwan Do, he was a
compassionate and caring teacher who instilled a powerful sense of duty and strong
values in his many students. He guided them not just in martial arts, but in life itself,
forging a legacy that will be carried on for generations by the many lives he touched.
Clifford was preceded in death by his beloved parents, brother William R Bird, sisters
Carmel Bird and Mary Prather. He is survived by daughters Shelli Ann Bird and
Kathleen Elizabeth Victoria Day, grandson Aiden Andreas Daylin Gamez, siblings
Anthony Bird, Kevin Bird, Stephanie Knapp, Lora Ledbetter, Lisa Bird and their spouses
Julie Bird, Bobbette Bird, John Knapp, Donald Black and Larry Stewart, 25 nephews
and 23 nieces, who will continue to honor his legacy by living with kindness, curiosity,
and love.
A memorial Mass will be held at Saint John the Apostle Catholic Church 7341 Glenview
Drive, North Richland Hills, TX 76180 on Friday, October 17 at 11:00 am.