Former Flight Attendant, Philanthropist Killed In Islip Murder-Suicide Was 'Such A Sweet Soul'

Eileen Clifford, 68, was shot to death by her husband, William, at the couple’s Islip home on Parsons Landing early Thursday, Feb. 20, Suffolk County Police said. Mr. Clifford, 73, then fatally shot himself, as Daily Voice reported.

Investigators had not revealed a motive for the shootings as of Friday, Feb. 21.

Colleagues and friends remembered Eileen Clifford as a beacon of warmth and compassion, known for her work in community organizations and charitable endeavors.

She was the chapter president of the Kiwi Club of Long Island, a philanthropic group of current and former flight attendants, which she founded in 2013. Over the years, she served as president, secretary, treasurer, and senior advisor.

Clifford devoted herself to helping others. She volunteered as a counselor at Birthright, Inc., assisting pregnant women and mothers in need. She was also a board member for Zonta International’s Suffolk County chapter, advocating for women and girls. Her work with NY Women in Travel and Airline Ambassadors, Inc. showcased her passion for both travel and humanitarian efforts.

Originally from San Francisco, California, Clifford’s adventurous spirit led her to a lifelong career with American Airlines, where she received multiple accolades, including the Golden Heart Award for saving a life on board a flight, induction into the Professional Flight Attendant Hall of Fame, and personal commendations from airline executives. She was also honored with the Presidential Volunteer Service Award, given by President George W. Bush.

Clifford’s impact extended beyond the aviation industry. She co-founded the Great Tastes of Long Island event to raise funds for local nonprofits and started Save America’s Window, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving the Robert Sowers-stained glass window from the old American Airlines Airport in New York.

She was also recognized by then-Senator Hillary Clinton for her fundraising efforts, further cementing her legacy as a passionate advocate for her community.

Shelly Woolf, one of Clifford’s longtime friends, remembered her as “such a sweet soul.”

“The kindest person you could ever meet,” Woolf told Daily Voice. “The fact that I will never see her again in this lifetime just guts me to my core.”

Funeral details for Clifford had not been publicized as of Friday, Feb. 21. Check back to Daily Voice for updates.

Click here to follow Daily Voice Hauppauge and receive free news updates.