Wilford Eugene Clayton, 84

Funeral services for Wilford Eugene Clayton, 84, of Wasola, were held Aug. 3, 2022, in the Clinkingbeard Chapel in Ava. Officiating will be Pastor Stan Collins and Pastor Dan Cottengim. 

Burial followed in the Murray Cemetery in Squires with military honors by the Troy Herd American Legion Post 112 and U.S. Army. 

Wilford died Aug. 1, 2022, at Gainesville Health Care Center with his family by his side. He was born Jan. 28, 1938 in Wasola, to Tilford and Lilliam Irene (Fry) Clayton.

He was a U.S. Army Veteran, serving his country from 1961 to 1963 followed by his enlistment in the reserves.

On Dec. 14, 1963 Wilford and Rosella Turner were married in Ava by Rev. Oscar Cunningham. They had three children.

Wilford was a retired fork truck driver for Caterpillar of Peoria, Illinois. He had worked there for 30 years. After retirement Wilford and Rosella moved back to the Wasola community. 

Wilford enjoyed working with goats and cattle. 

He loved being back home, and most of all, his joy came from being surrounded by his family. He was raised in the Baptist faith, and he loved the Lord.

Wilford is survived by his wife Rosella; four children and their spouses: Bill and 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.   

He was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Randy; and two grandchildren, Josh and Abby.     

Online condolences may be made to www.clinkingbeardfuneralhome.com.