Cleveland Clayton, Jr.

We are sad to announce the passing of Cleveland Clayton Jr., who was born on August 28, 1938, in Camilla, Georgia. He passed away on October 20, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.

Cleveland was the beloved son of the late Cleveland Clayton, Sr. and Sarah Smith. He was raised in Youngstown, Ohio and educated in their public school system. After graduation, Cleveland served his country as a member of the United States Marine Corps and served four years. He decided to change branches and enlisted in the United States Navy as a Flight Mechanic. While stationed in Tennessee, Cleveland met the love of his life, Ms. Wilma Parker. In 1965, they were bound in holy matrimony and together raised four children.

Cleveland completed his career in the military and in 1983 retired with 21 years of service as an E-6. He worked for the federal government for six years and then retired after ten years with the Collierville Police Department in Tennessee. He also was a member of Trinity CME Church in Memphis, under the leadership of Reverend P. Gonya Hentrel.

In his free time, Cleveland enjoyed fixing cars, listening to music and spending time with family. He had a passion for life and always had a smile on his face. His main passion was mastering the art of barbequing. He was the “Grill Master” who created his very own sauce called CJ’s Basting Sauce, which he, alongside his wife, sold at the Virginia Beach Farmers Market in Virginia.

Besides his parents, Cleveland was predeceased by his brother, Eugene Clayton.

Cleveland leaves to cherish his fond memories, his loving wife of 59 years, Wilma Clayton; four children, Adam Clayton, Marlo Clayton-Armstrong (Alvin Jr.), Mark Clayton and April Clayton. Cleveland was also a proud grandfather of five grandchildren, Austin Peoples, Tatum Proby, Erin Clayton, Kamron Minton, Mckyndsie Clayton; four great grandchildren; Xyhiere Peoples, Yazmynne Peoples, Monique Peoples, Avantae Peoples; and a host of other relatives and friends.