Clifford Eugene Clayton, longtime resident of Estherville, Iowa, passed away peacefully on August 20, 2026, in Oklahoma, surrounded by family at the age of 88. A Mass of Christian Burial for Clifford will take place on Monday, August 31, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Estherville with Father Travis Crotty officiating. Visitation will be held prior to mass at the church starting at 9:30 a.m., a brief eulogy will be given at 10:15 a.m. Burial for Cliff will take place on Tuesday, September 1, 2026 at 10 a.m., St. Patrick’s Catholic Cemetery in Estherville.
Clifford was the son of Thomas Frederick Clayton and Effie (Criger) Clayton. He was born on August 31, 1937, in Estherville, Iowa. He also had three older half-sisters, Ruth Evelyn Lind, Ruby Zitterich, and Marjorie Nielsen, all of whom preceded him in death.
On April 12, 1958, Clifford married Patricia Ann “Pat” (Wayson) Clayton. Together they raised their family in Estherville and shared more than four decades of marriage before Pat passed away on December 23, 2002.
Their children include Lisa (David) Nitchals, Katie (Art) Lehman, Tom (Linda) Clayton, Carolyn (Pat) Sheda, Mary (late Don) Kerr, Steve (Sandy) Clayton, and Brian (Penny) Clayton.
Clifford was blessed with many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.
Farming was an important part of Clifford’s life for many years. In addition to farming his own ground, he helped area farmers whenever an extra hand was needed. During the slower winter months and at different times throughout his younger years, Clifford also worked a variety of jobs, including Wadco, Firestone and the Grand Theater. Later, he also did trucking for Rohlin Construction, hauling asphalt and helping wherever the work took him. Clifford was never afraid of hard work and was known for doing what needed to be done.
In 2005, Clifford married Mary E. Hudek-Clayton. They shared approximately 20 years together, traveled often, enjoyed each other’s companionship, and spent many winters in Florida. Mary passed away on April 19, 2026.
During Clifford’s final chapter in Oklahoma, his granddaughter, Amy served as his primary caregiver, while his daughter Katie, granddaughter Barbie, and grandson Dustin were also close by and part of his daily life.
Clifford believed in family, faith, hard work, friendship, and service to others. He and Mary were involved with Rotary International, and Clifford also supported the Catholic community and the Diocese of Sioux City.
Above all, Clifford’s greatest legacy is the family he leaves behind and the generations who will continue to carry his memory forward.
In accordance with the family’s wishes, Clifford will be laid to rest beside his first wife, Patricia Ann “Pat” Wayson Clayton.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.henryolsonfuneral.com.
