Wilford Eugene Clayton, 84 years, 6 months, 1 day old, passed away peacefully on August 1, 2022 at Gainesville Healthcare Center in Gainesville, MO with family by his side.
Wilford was born January 28, 1938 in Wasola, MO to Tilford and Lilliam Irene (Fry) Clayton.
He was a U.S. Army Veteran and served his country from 1961 to 1963 and then he went into the Reserves.
Wilford was a retired fork truck driver for Caterpillar out of Peoria, IL. He had worked there for 30 years. After retirement Wilford and Rosella moved back to the Wasola community.
On December 14, 1963 Wilford and Rosella Turner were united in marriage in Ava, MO by Rev. Oscar Cunningham and to this union they were blessed with three children.
He enjoyed working with his goats and cattle. Wilford loved being back home and most of all his joy was being surrounded by his family! Wilford was raised in the Baptist faith and he loved the Lord!
He was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Randy; two grandchildren, Josh and Abby.
Wilford is survived by his wife, Rosella; four children and their spouses, Bill & Kelli Clayton, Lisa Bland, Willow Clayton and Parker Cook; three grandchildren, Zach, Shawna, and Trisha; five great grandchildren; one brother, Orville Clayton; three sisters, Ella Faye Mitchell, Christine Clayton, and Theta Nokes; many nieces, nephews, in-laws and numerous friends.
Funeral services for Wilford will be Wednesday, August 3, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. in the Clinkingbeard Chapel, Ava, MO with burial following in the Murray Cemetery, Squires, MO with military honors by the Troy Herd American Legion Post 112 and U.S. Army. Visitation will be prior to the service on Wednesday from 1:00 p.m. to service time. Officiating will be Pastor Stan Collins and Pastor Dan Cottengim.
