Clayton R. Wilson

Clayton R. Wilson passed away to be with the Lord on November 20, 2018 at the age of 70. Clayton was a graduate of the Norton High School class of 1966 where he met his high school sweetheart and loving wife of 53 years, Jackie. While the two raised their family, Clayton developed his passion of metal forging at Wright Tool for 28 years where he advanced to Forge Department Supervisor. Many of his innovations are still used by the company today.  After his retirement from Wright Tool, Clayton moved to Muncie, Indiana where he worked as Senior Forging Consultant for 10 years. During this time he started an eBay store buying and selling rare silver art bars and coins. Clayton was a proud member of the Barberton Masonic Lodge #750 F.&A.M.

Clayton retired from King-Indiana Forge and moved to Barberton, Ohio where he started his most valued job of all:  being a full-time grandpa to his 12 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.  He provided the biggest bear hugs, endless “ice cream money” and insurmountable laughs. He could always be found in his garage where he built his own forge shop.  He had a love for country music and enjoyed playing his guitar and singing, especially with his children.  Clayton’s personality was truly one of a kind. There wasn’t a soul that he couldn’t make laugh with his impressions, quick-wit or his wacky hair.

Clayton was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Annabelle Wilson; in-laws, Chester and Goldie Smith; sister-in-law, Mary Lou Loughry; and brother-in-law, Frank Knott.

He is survived by his wife, Jackie; sons, Clayton (Julie) Wilson Jr. and Shawn (Marcy) Wilson; daughter, Melissa (Jeff) Smith; sisters, Darci Wilson and Jodi (Jeff) Thayer; brother, Rob Wilson; sisters-in- law, Nancy (Dan) Leaf and Joy Knott; brother-in-law, John Loughry; and numerous extended family and friends.

The family would like to thank the doctors and nurses at the Barberton Parkview Pavilion for their care and support. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Clayton’s name to the Parkview Care Team at 155 5th St. NE, Barberton, OH 44203.

A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, December 2, 2018 at the Barberton Masonic Temple, 107 5th St. NW, Barberton, OH from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m.