Eugene Love Clayton

Eugene Love Clayton, 88, of Hopewell, born in Roxboro, North Carolina, passed away on January 2, 2025.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Mellie L. Clayton and Mabel Clayton; as well as his four brothers.

Eugene served in the Korean War. Upon his return, he completed his high school education and graduated from Roxboro High School.

Eugene enjoyed a successful career as a Lab Technician at Allied Chemical/Honeywell, and retired from their Tech Center. In addition, he enjoyed a part-time career as a carpenter, building cabinetry and built-ins for customers and family as well as boating friends.

In his free time, he enjoyed gardening. He once won an award from Prince George Cooperative for the largest tomato grown. His beautiful lawn and roses prompted passersby to stop and ask him for recommendations.

Eugene was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and neighbor. He was a fan of ACC sports and he proudly cheered his grandchildren on at their sports activities. He patiently listened to them and advised them on matters when counsel was sought. He was gifted with an extraordinary GPS built into his brain. He knew the highways and byways across America long before GPS services.

Eugene also loved the coast of North Carolina. Beach vacations with the family provided longtime memories and laughter, along with putt putt golf, sand sculptures, cooking, and fishing. Bluegrass music, whether enjoyed at a festival or listening at home, entertained Eugene with the music itself and the backstories of the entertainers and their songs.

Eugene was also a faithful member of Powers Memorial Baptist Church for many years.

Eugene is survived by his loving wife of 70 years, Edith Carver Clayton; his children, Shelby Clayton Salley and Gary P. Clayton; grandchildren, Andrew Salley, Meredith Hill, Trevor Clayton, and Troy Clayton; sisters, Nancy Clayton Bowles and Connie Clayton Penland (William); great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends at the Hopewell Chapel of J.T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home, 820 W. Broadway Avenue, on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at 12:00 PM, where a funeral will follow in the chapel at 1:00 PM. Interment will follow the service at Merchants Hope Memorial Gardens.

The family would like to thank James River Palliative & Hospice Care or their kind and supportive services.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in honor of Eugene may be made to the Wounded Warrior's Project at www.woundedwarriorproject.org, VFW Post #637, 1400 Lynchburg St, Hopewell, VA 23860, or a charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be registered to the family at www.jtmorriss.com.