DAVID WILLIAM CLAYTON
David William Clayton, lifelong resident of Dillsboro, laid down his working tools on July 13, 2021, to join again with his family and friends who preceded him on their journey to the next chapter of life. David, beloved son of Clarence Callahan Clayton and Ruby Margaret Stevens Clayton, joined his parents along with his previous wife, Nancy Jo Ryle Clayton, and his many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends who most certainly welcomed him with a story and a laugh.
David, or Dave as he was known, touched many people in his activities outside of his work as a stationary engineer for Monsanto/Bayer/Ineos. You could always find Dave at the ballfield, not only coaching or working with his children’s teams on improving their skills and character, but also working to establish the new park in Dillsboro. As Past Master and Past Secretary of Hopewell Masonic Lodge #80, Dave raised many a Master Mason and taught the tenants of the craft to hundreds of aspirants, having a lasting impact on both the community and mankind. You could also often find Dave in a garage, working on countless lawnmower, tractor and car engines, building several of his beloved small-block Chevrolets, and even a few Fords that are still cruising the roads today. Dave resided on the family farm where he spent most of his life and where he felt most at home. He treasured time spent with family and friends, including a memorable road trip to Alaska that he still spoke of fondly more than 20 years later. He will also be remembered for his service honoring our veterans with the playing of taps as a member of the Sons of the American Legion Post #292, as well as at countless Masonic services.
For those left here, he will be sorely missed for his stories, laughter and hugs. In addition to his mother, father and many beloved aunts and uncles, he was preceded in death by his brother-in-law Philip Detmer. Those surviving include his sister Pam Clayton Detmer of Aurora, and his daughter Nicole Norris (Daren), of Aurora, Colorado. Also surviving are his son Neil Callahan Clayton (Jennifer) of Madison, and those who called him “Bacca,” his granddaughters Ceona and Maysn, and grandson Elisha (Buddy) Norris, granddaughters Avery and Finley Clayton, and many cherished nieces and nephews.
David’s wishes included not having a service, or a “big to-do,” as he would say. At this time, the family plans to gather for a private service at a later date to fulfill his last wishes. Information on these details will be forthcoming.
“I am the resurrection and the life, saith the Lord; he that believeth in Me, though he were dead, yet shall he live; and whosoever liveth and believeth in Me shall never die.” So mote it be.
Memorials in Dave’s honor may be made to Dearborn County Community Foundation, to the Clayton Family Dillsboro Park Maintenance Fund – mail to Dearborn CCF, 322 Walnut Street, Lawrenceburg IN 47025, or the Hopewell Masonic Lodge #80 – mail to Hopewell Lodge, 13150 N. Street, Dillsboro, IN 47018.