Jerry Clayton 87, of Central City, Kentucky passed away Friday, December 15, 2023 at Owensboro Health Muhlenberg Community Hospital in Greenville. Gerald Lee Clayton was born February 23, 1936 in Falmouth, Kentucky to the late Delmar and Edna Warner Clayton, was married to Doris Clayton, until her death on April 6, 2009, was later married to the former Mamie Louise McCormick on July 11, 2012, and was better known as ‘Jerry’ to both his family and friends.
Jerry lived a full and honorable life, marked by dedication to his country, love for his family, and a passion for simple pleasures. Jerry’s early life in Falmouth laid the foundation for a man of strong values and a patriotic spirit. He was baptized at Oakland Christian Church in Falmouth. His commitment to service was evident when he joined the U.S. Army, where he served as an engineer for over 23 years. Jerry’s bravery and excellence in service were recognized through the awarding of a Bronze Star and two Purple Hearts for his valorous actions during the Vietnam War. After his military career, Jerry continued his life of service, retiring from the State of Florida Department of Corrections. His work ethic and integrity were an inspiration to all who knew him.
Jerry was a man who found happiness in life’s simple treasures. His weekends were often spent scouring yard sales for hidden gems, a hobby that brought him immense joy. An avid fisherman, he cherished the tranquility of casting a line and waiting for the next big catch. Jerry was also known for his love of dining out, whether it was enjoying a meal with family or sharing laughter with friends over a good dinner; these moments were savored and remembered.
Jerry’s life story is one of courage, service, and unwavering love. He navigated life’s challenges with resilience and faced each day with a positive outlook that was contagious to all who had the pleasure of his company. Jerry’s legacy will live on through the lives of those he touched, the service he rendered, and the love he shared.
In addition to his parents, and his first wife, Jerry was preceded in death by a granddaughter, JoAnna Louise VanCleve Howard; by a son-in-law, Jim Blakeley; by a brother, Thomas Clayton; and by his two sisters, Cathy Compton and Judy Hite.
Jerry is survived by his wife, Mamie Clayton; two step sons, Jim Tucker of Berkeley, California and Buddy Clayton (Tabatha) of Island; four step daughters, Edna Richardson (J.R.) of Cadiz, Clara Johnson (Wayne) of Central City, Marsha Layton (Scotty) of Calhoun, and Rhonda Blakeley of Powderly; 15 step grandchildren; 16 step great-grandchildren; a brother, Ronald Lynn Clayton (Pat) of Lakeland, Florida; several loving nieces, nephew, and many friends.
Jerry’s family would like to express their appreciation for the care and personal care given to him by his caregivers, Bill Beadnell, Sarah Tooley, Michelle Jones, Tabatha Shemwell, Esther Shemwell, and Dawn Cottrell.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 P.M. Monday, December 18, 2023 at Muster Funeral Homes, Calhoun Chapel with the Rev. Mike McLean officiating. Friends may visit with Jerry’s family from 11:00 A.M. until 1:00 P.M. Monday at Musters in Calhoun.
The Jerry Clayton family requests that expressions of sympathy take the form of donations to McLean County Veterans of Foreign Wars Memorial Post #5415, Honor Guard Unit; C/O David L. James; 1208 Devonshire Street; Madisonville, Kentucky 42431.
Jerry’s services will be streamed live on musterfuneralhomes.com at 1:00 P.M. Monday.
Share your memories and photos of Jerry at musterfuneralhomes.com.