Richard Clayton

JEFFERSON CITY — Richard L. Clayton, 77, of Jefferson City passed away Saturday, April 13, 2024, at his home.

He was born Jan. 29, 1947, in Matthews, one of eight children born to Edgar Hubbard and Sarah Eula Pack Clayton.

In a quaint church during an evening service, Richard’s mischievous spirit shone as he playfully pulled one hair at a time out of the ponytail of the little girl seated in front of him. Little did he know this moment would mark the beginning of a lifelong journey intertwined with unexpected joy.

Through the passage of time, Richard found himself drawn to Pamela June Francis, eventually summoning the courage to ask her out on a date. Their love story unfolded March 27, 1970, in Brownwood., where they were joined in marriage, embarking on a shared adventure that spanned 54 beautiful years.

A native of Missouri, Richard completed his schooling at Advance High School in 1966 before pursuing his passion for diesel mechanics at Bailey Technical School, earning his degree. He spent a short time working as a mechanic in Piggott, Arkansas, and then for a few years on a Mississippi River boat and then as a mechanic for the City of Cape Girardeau. His career journey began with a 27-year tenure with Halliburton, applying his expertise as a diesel mechanic in equipment repair. He transitioned to the Advance R-IV School District as a devoted bus mechanic, dedicating 13 years to ensuring safe travels for students. At the time of his passing, he continued his diligent work with Knaphiede, installing service equipment on trucks with unwavering commitment. Throughout his life, he spent many years working for different farmers in between jobs and after work, crop sharing, a practice that stemmed from his fascination with gardening from a young age.

Richard’s steadfast faith was a cornerstone of his life, reflected in his active membership at Memorial Baptist Church. He found solace and joy in the harmonious melodies of hymns, with "Glorious Day That Will Be" by A Few Good Men holding a special place in his heart.

A man of the outdoors, Richard cherished the serene tranquility of Michigan mornings, often found perched in a stand, eagerly awaiting the perfect deer. His love for fishing led him on memorable adventures, including a fruitful day aboard a charter boat, fishing for salmon. However, it was the land that truly captured his heart, embodying his passion for farming. From vast gardens reminiscent of football fields in Advance to nurturing multiple lots in Missouri’s community garden, Richard’s green thumb was legendary. He delighted in sharing his agricultural wisdom, cultivating everything from potatoes to bountiful vegetables.

Guided by the principles of compassion, Richard embodied the essence of a good Samaritan. Inspired by a poignant sermon, he once came to the aid of a broken-down bus filled with teenagers returning from a church retreat. Offering not just a helping hand but also shelter, warmth and food, he epitomized kindness in action.

Yet, amidst his varied pursuits, Richard’s most cherished moments were those spent creating lasting memories with his beloved family and cherished friends. A gentle giant with a heart of gold, he was affectionately known as a lovable teddy bear and a testament to hard work and unwavering dedication to his family.

Richard’s legacy as a captivating storyteller will live on in the hearts of those who knew him best. His absence leaves a profound void in the lives of all who were touched by his warmth, kindness, and enduring spirit. He will be deeply missed, his memory forever cherished in the tapestry of our lives.

Survivors include his loving wife, Pamela of the home; children, Sara Ann (Boyd) Denson of Jefferson City and Matthew Richard (Gretchen) Clayton of Palmer, Alaska; four grandchildren, Samuel Boyd Denson, Gideon Matthew Denson, Isaac Richard Clayton and Silas Levi Clayton; six siblings, Sharon Hood of Bloomfield, Eva Carter of Orange City, Florida, David (Diane) Clayton of Dana Point, California, Donald (Cathy) Clayton of Jackson, Gene (Bonnie) Clayton of Sikeston and Ruth Ann Battenberg of Cape Girardeau. Richard had an infinite number of friends that his life touched in a positive way.

He was preceded in death by his son, Robert Edgar Clayton; parents; one brother, James Anderson Clayton; and two brothers-in-law, Harold Hood and Danny Carter.

Visitation will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. Thursday, April 18, at Freeman Mortuary, 915 Madison, Jefferson City, MO 65101.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, April 19, at Memorial Baptist Church, 1120 Madison, Jefferson City, MO 65101, with the Revs. David Newton and Matthew Clayton officiating. A second visitation will be held one hour prior to the service beginning at 10 a.m. at the church.

A webcast of the funeral service will begin at 11 a.m. Friday, April 19, for friends who are not able to attend, by going to his memorial page on Freeman Mortuary’s website.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to Memorial Baptist Church, 1120 Madison, Jefferson City, MO 65101, or March of Dimes, Donation Processing Center, P.O. Box 18819, Atlanta, GA 31126.

A memorial service at First General Baptist Church of Advance will be held in July with a time to be determined.

Funeral arrangements are under the care of Freeman Mortuary.