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Clayton Whitted Obituary
Full of heart and determination, Clayton Whitted, 28, might not have been the biggest guy around, but he was among the hardest-working. His former Prescott High School coach, Lou Beneitone, said Whitted was a "wonderful kid" who always had a big smile on his face. Whitted played for the football team as an offensive and defensive lineman.
"He was a smart young man with a great personality, just a wonderful personality," said Beneitone. "When he walked into a room, he could really light it up."
Beneitone said Whitted loved being a firefighter and was well-respected among his crew. He says he ran into Whitted about two months ago and they shook hands and hugged, and talked about the upcoming fire season.
"I told him to be careful," Beneitone said.
Contributing to this report were AP reporters Raquel Maria Dillon in Seal Beach, Calif., Sue Manning in Los Angeles and Hannah Dreier in Prescott.
Copyright © 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
113 Entries
Eugenia Whitted
June 21, 2018
Gone but not forgotten
theresa smith
July 1, 2014
Im sorrry for your loss
Kathleen
November 30, 2013
Dear loved ones of Clayton,
It has been nearly six months since this horrific tragedy. My prayer is for you to continue to endure in spite of the emotional pain that greets you each day. May you be comforted in knowing that our heavenly father knows how you feel and listens intently if you call on him and come and pray to him, he listens and will calm your heart. – Jeremiah 29:12
How you can show support
A headstone from ireland quote
August 15, 2013
Michelle Kendall & Family
August 10, 2013
The world is full of men, but what of men noble and true?
Can you say that you have known such a man?
These men are far too few.
But let me tell you a a story,
About a team of men
Who left behind a legacy
That will not be forgotten.
Highly trained,
They passed every test,
Chosen to fight wild fires,
They were called the best.
One scorching June day in 2013,
When a wildfire raged
The Hotshots were called upon
To battle the fiery blaze.
Armed with tools and heavy gear,
They set out in their prime,
No job too hard for these men,
No hill too tall to climb.
Command was set, plans were made
To tackle the fire's wrath
But winds shifted unexpectedly
And they were trapped in the fire's path.
19 men were caught that day,
The fire drew quickly near
Though they knew they were truly trapped,
Not a one showed fear.
Dig your shelters, men came the command,
Each one knew what this meant
They dug with haste and with one final look
They took to their tents.
Then let us look away,
For we cannot bear
What came to each one next,
Each man endured in those fiery moments,
His final Hotshot test.
And when the aid finally found the men,
The blackened landscape bore
The testimony of death everywhere,
And the men who were no more.
Oh children, your father was so brave,
A man who did his best
In work excelled, he fought to save,
withstanding every test.
Dear widow, may you never shed
another tear at some unhappy strife
For you've suffered enough dread
The day your husband lost his life.
Young sweetheart, your hopes and dreams
Lay in ashes, from the fire's wrath
May you find hope and dream once more
Though sorrow has changed your path.
Sad mother, your beautiful son,
your joy and your pride
Whom you succored with patient love,
has bravely lived and bravely died.
Two prayers I pray for you, the first,
Though all hope now seem dim
May you have a hope in God,
And place your trust in Him.
Second, May something good,
Something beautiful and strong
Emerge from this tragic loss
From something that went so wrong.
Then like a Phoenix from the ashes
May these men and their noble deeds
Live, for love is stronger than death,
In the lives of those who who stop here to read.
The voyage
August 9, 2013
Sandee Garza Schock
August 7, 2013
To the Family & Friends
of Mr. Whitted
Please accept my deepest
sympathy in the loss of
Your HERO. May He Rest In
Peace. May God comfort You during this difficult time.
Sincerely
July 25, 2013
God Bless!
Richard & Dixie (Amador) Rodela
July 17, 2013
Our deepest sympathies go out to the Whitted family. We lost so many heros that day. Cheryl, we lost track of you but we never forgot you. Take care and our prayers go out to you & your family at this extremely sad time.
Peace & Love from a greatful stranger
July 15, 2013
When I think about Jesus and all he's done for us, my heart cries out hallelujah, and it does the same for you and those who work to keep us safe!!!!! God IS too wise to make a mistake, too just to do wrong. My wish for your family is all God's peace and Blessings. Again, thank you for ALL you did.
Nikki Aloisio
July 12, 2013
"Lifting the family up in prayer"
Rebecca
July 11, 2013
So sorry for your loss!! God be with this family and help them through this. God bless~
July 10, 2013
In high school he could make a room smile with his goofy and fun personality. There wasn't a time that you could witness Clayton in a bad mood. You truly are an amazing person and we are all blessed to have known you!!! Rest in peace and thank you for impacting my life.
Pennie & Tammy White
July 10, 2013
Wishing you peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your hearts.
July 10, 2013
Thank you friend
July 9, 2013
Sorry to hear of your passing, Clayton. JC Whitted, Corvallis, Oregon
Dave Reeves
July 9, 2013
Clayton was one of the best young men I ever coached. I send my love to his family.
Coach Reeves
Steve Reid and family
July 9, 2013
Our hearts mourn and ache along with your hearts and at the same time we have peace and comfort through our savior Jesus Christ just as Clayton does. Clayton was a dear close friend who I could count on for volunteer help throughout the Prescott area. He was one of my go to workers that when available was always willing to lend a hard working hand. It could be moving a widow or cutting trees. Our family lost a wonderful loving friend. We are praying for you Kristi and asked that the God of all comfort and peace wrap His strong arms around you in this hard time.
Kevin and Tasha
July 8, 2013
Our deepest condolences to you the family and loved ones of this extraordinary young man. He has touched the hearts & minds of the world with his exemplary character,integrity, passion and dedication. He will not be forgotten. His life made a difference. Our thoughts and prayers are with you now and in the days to come. May the God of ALL Comfort - comfort you as only He can. "Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed,for His compassions never fail. With great respect,
Kim Fahey
July 8, 2013
Carl, Cheryl, Carmen and Kristi my prayers and thoughts go out to all of you in this time of sorrow. I did not know Clayton, but from what I have read he sounded like a wonderful young man. I was a good friend of Cheryl's in high school and have tried to find her over the years. My heart aches for you. God Bless.
Barbara Kolb
July 8, 2013
So sorry to lose this incredible young man. There is deep sadness in the hearts of Arizonans. We mourn with you.
Lynda Maleta
July 8, 2013
Find healing in the cheerished memories that will live on of these Angels. These "19 HEROES OF THE FOREST" will never be forgotten. Keep the Faith. Many Blessings and Hugs.
Mike Kerrigan
July 8, 2013
Carl and Family, I don't know if you remember me or not but I was a kid and your neighbor in Clifton in the early 70's. I wanted to send you my deepest condolences. I retired from the Forest Service in wildland firefighting. I wanted to share that with you to say that I understand your sons attachment to wild-land fire, I hope that all his family members could see how noble and honorable this profession can be by his sharing his attachment to it with you. It is hard to explain to someone who has not done this task why it is an appealing vocation but I can assure you that as hard as the job can be it was a rewarding personal experience to those that loved doing it. As I have read the many memorials to him and the others I am struck with the type of people lost in this awful event and it is profound. I hope you can find some solace and peace very soon.
Eileen Andric
July 8, 2013
So very sorry for your loss. A true American hero.
Gretchen W
July 8, 2013
Gone, never forgotten, always loved, forever missed. Love. Thank you all 19 brave men.
John McP
July 8, 2013
Clayhead- u were always a friend no matter what, thank you for helping me grow up knowing I had a true friend. Got this 8th grade pic of us on the DC trip, will always forever have it with me as a reminder every day you wake up is a good day, so wake up and serve a purpose. Much love Karl (#1 badger fan) to u and your fam, your son lived a more purposeful, shameless and honorable life than billions could ever hope to accomplish..miss u so much clayhead u sir are an angel now, no questions there. ~ from all your prescott friends in sw Montana, much love, you will never be forgotten
July 7, 2013
My deepest condolences to your family, and prayers for strength. Such a brave, strong young person to do what Clayton did every day.
Diana Stritch
July 7, 2013
I read all the firemen story and two captured my heart Clayton was one of them. He was an influential leader that God used in a powerful way and even after his death his legacy will live on! May God comfort and bless you with his peace, strength and joy of the great memories of Clayton. Our prayers and deep empathy are with you...
Jo Allen
July 7, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Pam McParland
July 6, 2013
Karl, You and Clayton's sisters have my deepest sympathy. I feel such a loss, I can only imagine the depth of yours. Clayton would occasionally stop in my office to chat, share a couple of laughs, and never failed to give me a hug before he left. His visits always made my day and lifted my spirits. May you find comfort in your memories of a a very special man that touched many lives. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and yours.
Pat Cavett
July 6, 2013
Carl,Kristi,Carmen and I think Sheryl,I am so very sorry..I have been in prayer for the family ever since I heard about Clayton and the other young men.Having lost my son Cody at age 20,I know there isn't anything I can say that will ease your pain,just know I am thinking about you all,and grieving with you.The only thing that really helped me for long ,was going down on my knees when the pain became unbearable and crying out to God. My heart just breaks for you all,and for Clayton.My faith is what has carried me through,and I know what the Lord has done for me,he will do for you too! Although I now live in Ky,my heart is there with you! Pat
Marjean Kinsey
July 5, 2013
May the Lord's light guide you through this difficult time and may it provide you some comfort to know that Clayton was and will always be a hero.
Paul Stangler 3927 San Leandro Place
July 5, 2013
Cheryl, I am so sorry for your loss. Paul in Virginia.
Debbie Luevano
July 5, 2013
Our deepest condolences. God welcomed all the Hotshots home with open arms. RIP
Maribeth Braaksma
July 5, 2013
You are very much in my heart, thoughts and prayers. I am so very sorry for your loss.
Miki
July 4, 2013
I am so sorry for your loss. I am praying for your family during this time of grief.
Sharon Anderson
July 4, 2013
I lost my own son (45) to heart disease in May. I have some idea of how it feels. There is an empty, aching spot in your heart! However, like Clayton, my son was a believer. I have the peace of knowing he is with the Lord. In spite of the ache of losing him in this life, I know I will see him in the next life. I hope that knowledge will also give you some peace.
The Earland Family
July 4, 2013
We will miss Clayton's presence. He had many contributions to his community. May the love and the special memory you shared with him show just how much your life was touched by him. Please accept my deepest sympathy for your loss. Please find comfort in Psalms 55:22.
Cheryl Doughty
July 4, 2013
my thoughts and prayers are with all the Whitted family. What a tragic loss of a wonderful young man, a true hero. His was a smile that will be truly missed. May god watch over and bless you all...
Martha Gala
July 4, 2013
My thoughts & prayers for Carmen & the enitre Whitted family. Clayton was truely a brave man and may GOD grant him rest among the Saints. Memory Eternal!
susan cowell
July 4, 2013
Special prayers going to way for such a BRAVE young man. Cherish those special memories you have and hold him close in your heart. Such an unselfish act to out his life on the line to save others is just something you should be so grateful for. Please know our thoughts with the family
Janice Mullins Lovett
July 4, 2013
I can not find the words to tell you how very sorry I am for your loss. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. My love to you and your family.
Marilyn Evans
July 4, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are for the Whitted family at this time. Thank you to this young man for making the ultimate sacrifice for so many others . He is truly one of God's guardian angels now watching over his family. God Bless You all
July 3, 2013
May gods blessings be with his entire family and friends during this most difficult time. My sister Diana says he was a very wonderful young man. I myself am a fire fighter one and a first responder. These people that do these things are exceptional and he was at the top. My sister said he was a great young man
Tom and Pam Nelson
Prewitt nm
Leslie Keller
July 3, 2013
Its hard to find the words to say at such a great loss. But know that my thoughts & prayers are with you and all the familys and friends of those very brave men. May God be with you all to help you get thru such a difficult time.
July 3, 2013
our prayers are with your family
Kevin Lambe
July 3, 2013
May God comfort you during this most difficult time. Clayton sounds like he was a wonderful young man. I hope you all find comfort in having the experience of this mans love, live forever in your hearts. From the story I read about his big smile. I know from that, Clayton knew he was loved.
Marian Marsceill
July 3, 2013
So sorry to hear about your loss. Thoughts and prayers are sent your way. God bless.
Chelsea Russell
July 3, 2013
Sending love and light to the Whitted family, so sorry for your loss. RIP Brother;
Chelsea Russell, Toronto Fire Services
July 3, 2013
a hero that has gone on to the angels rip
Always in our hearts!
July 3, 2013
Danny & Joyce Snide
July 3, 2013
Comfort the Bereaved
When earthbound days are done, and loved ones go beyond, Sometimes our Lord's promis for eternal life is hidden in grief and loneliness and strife, but, a sympathetic nod, a note that says, "I care", a gesture or a hand to hold will lift clouds of despair. Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. Romans 12:15. We are weeping with your family as you try to cope with this tragedy. Love Joyce, Peoria Az
Jenny Bruner
July 3, 2013
My deepest condolonces to the Whitted Family. May God bless each of you and comfort during this time. A true Hero!
Carolyn Hettich
July 3, 2013
My heartfelt condolences. I am so very sorry for your loss; so very grateful for your sacrifice.
Charlene Rathgeb
July 3, 2013
Sending you much love, and pray that you are granted strength in the coming days. Our sorrow is truly numbing, and our hearts are with you. Charlene and Mike Rathgeb, both with Toronto Fire Services, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
The Goswick Family
July 3, 2013
We are so sorry for your loss and are praying for the strength, comfort and peace that only God can give. When our daughter first started going to Heights High School group, Clayton always made sure she felt welcome. She was shy and would sit by herself and he would sit by her so she wouldn't feel alone until she found her niche in the group. When she was having extreme headaches and undergoing tests, Clayton would pray with her before youth group every week. He was an incredible servant of the Most High God. We just thought you would like to hear our story.
July 3, 2013
Prayers to the family of thing young hero....God Bless you all.
eleanor whitted
July 3, 2013
my thoughts and prayers are with you
July 3, 2013
The thoughts and prayers of the nation are with you as you grieve the loss of your loved one. May you find some comfort in knowing that you are in the thoughts and prayers of so many at this sad time.
Rich Reay of WHFD
July 3, 2013
God Bless the Whitted family during this difficult time. Clayton is truly a hero for what he believed and for what he did.
Kary Handy
July 3, 2013
What a senseless tragedy and profound loss for Clayton's family, friends and all those who knew him. He looks like a very happy young man who must have brought much joy to those around him. I thank him for the ultimate sacrifice he made while protecting others. Clayton and his team mates are all heroes (this includes the sole survivor). My heartfelt prayers go up for Clayton's family and friends and anyone affected by his tragic loss. May God, the Great Comforter, bring peace which transcends human understanding to all those who are grieving Clayton's loss.
Robyn
July 2, 2013
Clayton will forever be with you. His spirit is there now, doing what he did best, saving others. Peace be with you now.
EDGAR & NELL BROWN
July 2, 2013
OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO YOUR FAMILY AND YOUR LOVE ONES. YOU ARE IN PRAYERS. MAY GOD BLESS AND KEEP YOU.
gina perry
July 2, 2013
im sorry for your lost i heard it on the news my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family god bless
Alexandria Napier
July 2, 2013
So very sorry for your loss. Your family will be in my thoughts and prayers. Clayton was a hero, and will never be forgotten.
Kenneth & Jeanne Katona
July 2, 2013
Our thoughts & Prayers are with you and your family.
Carol Durkin
July 2, 2013
God Bless your family.
All of Arizona grieves with you.
With Deep Sympathy --
Stella Marshall
July 2, 2013
Our families have never met but share the heartache of your loss. We pray for your comfort in the days ahead and that you come to know that "God is near to those what are broken at heart; and those who are crushed in spirit he saves." May you and your family experience the comfort from the Maker of us all and experience the depth of love He has for you and yours.
Gigi Cirrincione
July 2, 2013
Praying for you that God will comfort you and give you peace during this time of tragic loss. I didn't know these men personally, but I know they had huge hearts, and were extremely courageous to do what they did.
Prescott trolley - Christmas caroling2
Gary Arnold
July 2, 2013
Prescott trolley - Christmas caroling1
Gary Arnold
July 2, 2013
Monica Martin
July 2, 2013
I am so sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts. No words can help at this time but please remember we share in your loss. My husband, my oldest daughter, and myself are firefighters.
Two beautiful people
Gary Arnold
July 2, 2013
Ty LeRoy
July 2, 2013
While I did not have the pleasure of knowing Clayton personally, I have heard stories about him while working with his sister Carmen. May God bless the Whitted family and all of the family and friends of the 19 brave young men who lost their lives. The power of prayer is an amazing thing, and rest assured that Carmen's family at GCU is sending their fair share with heavy hearts.
God bless,
Jody K
July 2, 2013
Kristi, I am so very sorry that your family is going through this great loss with the passing of Clayton. Please know that yourself, family and Clayton's friends will be in my thoughts and prayers. Prescott will never forget!
Gary Arnold
July 2, 2013
One of the nicest guys I have ever met. He revealed his kindness and love to every member of my family. Clayton added to the blessings and joy of life in Prescott.
Elizabeth Arnold
July 2, 2013
Clayton was a true example of living his life for Jesus. It's not surprising that he laid his life for people he didn't know. He loved Jesus with all his heart, and it showed by his example of loving and caring for others. My prayers for Kristi, family and all who knew him. Clayton will truly be missed.
Sunshine DiNardo
July 2, 2013
My heart is broken. Loving thoughts and prayers go out to the family.
NOTHING BUT RESPECT!
23rd Psalm - Yea though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death I will fear no evil for Thou art with me...
Lynda Connor
July 2, 2013
I didn't know Clayton but work with his sister Carmen. My heart goes out to friends and family of any of our heroes lost in a just cause. God bless.
July 2, 2013
God's Blessings
Kathy & Brian Kent
Blenheim Ontario Canada
Brian
July 2, 2013
Clayton,
You gave the ultimate sacrifice. I was honored to know you. I will miss your inspiring presence. Thursday mornings will never be the same.
Nancy and Norm Sandoz
July 2, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the family. His friends testify to the outstanding young man he was. God bless you with strength and comfort.
The O'Coys
July 2, 2013
He was a hugger! I am sure he was a wonderful person and Heaven is going to be a better place with him. We send our sympathies to all his friends and family. He will never be forgotten and we will keep him in our prayers and thoughts. God Bless you Clayton!
David & Kathryn Luithle
July 2, 2013
May you find strength in God in this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Joyce Whitted
July 2, 2013
Thanks for your work and dedication to others. You are a hero Clayton.
Shipp
July 2, 2013
Whitted was an honorable man. May God grant him a place of light and peace. Memory eternal.
loretta sinclair
July 2, 2013
There is a certain "breed" of man who become firefighters.I use to work in the same office as some firefighters here in Reno, NV. I never, ever met such a great group of men in my life.From what I hear, Heaven is magnificient.I am so sad for all the families and friends loosing their husbands, sons, brothers, uncles etc. RIP all of you.May God bring you the strength needed to forge ahead.
Elida Bocanegra
July 2, 2013
As the mother who lost her 28 year old son, I just wanted to reach out to Clayton's mother. I know about the pain and the emptiness... If there's any comfort in these words I heard from my church Pastor at my son's funeral here they are: Your son had a mission in life, in his short life he had already accomplished all that he had to do here. Keep his memory in your heart as the most precious gift you ever had.
Elida
Tony S.
July 2, 2013
My deepest condolences to the family and friends of these fine young men that paid the ultimate price. My prayers are with you!
Jay High
July 2, 2013
dear Kristi and family, I'm so sorry to hear about Clayton. When my wife and I moved to Prescott in the early 90's I got a job working for the YMCA summer program being a camp counselor. Clayton was in my little group of rangers and for some reason he and I just bonded. I never forgot Clayton and because I worked as a sports official for the city I would bump into Clayton off and on through the years . He was and will always be a blessing. My great comfort and joy is to know that Clayton is in Jesus arms and will always be alive forever more. I know Jesus weeps with you in your pain just as He did for Lazarus all the while knowing He would raise him. The Lord's great love keep you in this time of great sorrow. Jay High
July 2, 2013
May God give you the strength, comfort and peace to endure this tragedy. My heart breaks for all of you.
Carol Underwood, Burlington, NC
Charlotte
July 2, 2013
My heart breaks for Clayton Whitted's family. I pray that God comforts them with an everlasting peace and love.
Taylor's
July 2, 2013
We will all miss you.
Joy Roshon
July 2, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are with you now...
July 2, 2013
May the family gain strength from God and friends, my condolences to all.
Scott Chamberland
July 2, 2013
Please accept my Deepest Sympathies
Marty Boles
July 2, 2013
May you rest in Peace, Clayton! Thank you for the ultimate sacrifice you made for your fellow man!
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