Brandon J. Garette

OLD ORCHARD BEACH — Brandon J. Garette, also known as Eric J. Clifford of Old Orchard Beach and recently California, 48, died unexpectedly on Sunday, June 30, 2013, after complications from AIDS following a 27-year battle.

Born in Maine on May 11, 1965, the son of John A. and Jacqueline (Redlevske) Clifford, he attended several schools throughout his childhood and Bangor Community College.

Eric was a strong person, who believed in educating the young people of today. He was diagnosed with AIDS in 1986 when he embarked on a career as a motivational speaker, volunteering his time bringing information about the struggles of living with AIDS to high school-aged students in the York and Cumberland county areas.

Eric had a passion for music, loved dancing, and playing cards. He also enjoyed holidays and took great pleasure in decorating for all of them. Things won’t be the same without him. He will be sadly missed by all those who loved him.

Eric was a member of the Rochambeau Club and a strong advocate for the AIDS Project.

He leaves behind his mother, Jacqueline Clifford of Biddeford; father, John Clifford of Bridgton; sisters, Bonnie Lowell of Dayton and Margaret Champoux of Biddeford; brothers, Michael Clifford of California and Alan Clifford of Virginia; half brother, John Clifford Jr.; half sisters, Lena Hawkins and Wanda Kaplinger; aunts, an uncle; cousins and many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, July 20, 2013, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the home of his sister, Bonnie Lowell, 119 Dayton Lane, Dayton. A balloon release will take place at 2 p.m.; please bring a brightly colored balloon to participate in Eric’s honor. A private burial will take place at a later date. To share your thoughts and condolences with the family, please visit www.desmondfuneralhomes.com

In lieu of flowers, it was Brandon’s request that donations be made to: Death with Dignity National Center, 520 SW 6th Ave., Suite 1220, Portland, Oregon 97204 or visit www.deathwithdignity.org