William Earl Clayton's Obituary
William Earl Clayton, 90, was born to parents Earl Thomas Clayton and Willyne Neal on October 8, 1927 in Jackson, Mississippi. He passed away on March 1, 2018 in Richardson, Texas. William will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew and loved him.William Clayton began his life October 8, 1927 in the small town of Jackson MS as the only child of Earl andWylene Clayton. A handsome, blond headed child whom everyone loved. Growing up as a small boy inMississippi, he had a happy childhood full of love and acceptance. He spent summer vacations on theAlabama coast fishing with his dad. He had a small black and white bulldog named Buster who liked to eatthe neighbors prized tulips. At one point he had a pet duck who lived in the back yard, and for a brief time,he told me he kept a tiny baby alligator in the family tub.In high school, he followed his interest in photography and worked for the school paper, taking anddeveloping photographs – many of them we still have. Our dad loved to take pictures throughout most ofhis life. I remember he always had a camera close by, covering every event we encountered growing up –birthday parties, graduations, vacations as well as a friends visit, backyard sunsets or our newest family car.He received his college degree at Milsap College in Jackson MS where he met and married Rosanna Clayton.They were married for 55 years. They moved twice, once to Wyoming followed by a few years in ShreveportLouisana. In 1953 one final move brought dad to Dallas Tx where he and Rosanna raised 4 children – David ,followed by sister Amy, brother Dan and sister Casey.For most of his life my dad was the sole provider for his family, working hard in the oil and gas industry.I remember my dad once said whatever successes he would have in life he owed it all to his wonderfulmother Ene and her amazing work ethic that she instilled in him. He was well liked by all who worked with him.He will always be remembered for his kind smile, willingness to help, and a forgiving nature.Those who knew dad could appreciate his amazing sense of humor and his incredible quick wit. He alwayshad a funny story at dinner and we laughed together a lot as a family. He was a dedicated father and husbandand no matter how tired he was after a long day he made time for us. All the kids in the neighborhood lovedour dad because he always made them feel welcome and made them laugh. I always looked forward tointroducing any new school friend to my dad.Later in life he turned his attention to his love for making jewelry. He attended workshops, classes and wasalways reading at night in our den . While working a full time job, he eventually opened a small jewelry shop– The Blue Anvil, where he was very successful creating beautiful hand made jewelry for many years. I betmany of you here today are wearing a wedding ring or piece of jewelry he made for you and I know he wouldbe so pleased and proud. His love and talent for jewelry was a life long passion.In retirement, Bill loved to travel with Rosanna to Santa Fe New Mexico and explore art studios for paintingand jewelry making or find a quiet bed and breakfast in the Texas hill country until Rosanna’s passing in 2005.In the last few years, his health began to fail but he never lost his sense of humor and unflagging couragewhich was so evident in his final hours.Dad, you have had a profound influence on us all and we will often think of you and of the good times weshared. We wish you everlasting peace and freedom from pain and suffering. We will try and accept the lossand void in our hearts which your passing has left with the same good grace you always showed.We must say goodbye but we will always remember you and carry with us your spirit to laugh and look forthe best in people. Graveside service for Mr. Clayton will be at 11 AM in Wildwood Garden in Restland Cemetery.Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Restland Funeral Home and Cemetery, 13005 Greenville Avenue, at Restland Road, Dallas, Texas 75243.
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