Capt. Hayes Clayton

Capt. Hayes Clayton

Hayes Clayton Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Jan. 5, 2007.
Vera Cooper said her grandson, Hayes Clayton, was a "nice young man," respectful to his elders and "a wonderful person. And I'm not saying that just because he was my grandson." The last time she spoke with him, he was about to leave the country, she said. "He called me from the airport just to say goodbye." Clayton, 29, of Fairburn, Ga., died Dec. 25 in Balad of wounds suffered from an explosive. He was assigned to Fort Riley. He graduated high school in 1996, and played defensive end and defensive back on the varsity football team. He entered the Army after graduating from Fort Valley (Ga.) State University, where he was in the ROTC. He and his wife, Monica, had been married for a little more than a year. Their son, Hayes Clayton III, was born in July, two months before Clayton left for duty in Iraq. "He and his wife were so happy. He was overjoyed," Cooper said. His former football coach James "Friday" Richards said he last saw the honor roll student about a year ago. "Every time he came home, he'd come to see me," Richards said. "I'll tell you this, he's in a great place now. God's taking care of him."

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Not sure what to say?

May 26, 2025

Eric Clayton posted to the memorial.

May 22, 2025

Marlena Clayton posted to the memorial.

December 28, 2024

MSG JT Taylor posted to the memorial.

Eric Clayton

May 26, 2025

Hey Brother, remembering you is a forever thing. Not just today, but always. Contact with your son has finally happened and the family is overjoyed. It´s been nearly 18 years. He looks so much like you it´s unbelievable. You would be proud of your son. Many times we fail to understand God´s plan, but in the end it will always be better than what we can imagine. Love you man, your big brother!

Marlena Clayton

May 22, 2025

Son, today your family is so excited to see pictures of Trey! We know it´s been a long time since we saw him last. But God gets all the glory! God still in the miracle working business. I was an able to talk to him. I wanted to cry!! GOD IS SOOOO GOOD!!!!

MSG JT Taylor

December 28, 2024

CPT Clayton always had a smile, both him and Wheelous. You Sit, touched those of us that knew you and you are never forgotten. I ordered a new KIA Bracelet for Christmas which I wear you in the right arm and Wheelous in my left. lest We Forget ~ MSG JT Taylor. 7-2 NPTT

Trent

December 26, 2024

This time of year is always bittersweet-the happiness of the holiday paired with the loss of a friend. For a short time, Hayes and I followed each other around the globe. We met in Korea while he was taking a group of cooks from "his DFAC" out for wings. We shared a few drinks and had a few laughs over there, and then it was time for me to leave. I ended up in Kansas and guess who showed up right after me, Hayes. We picked back up right where we left our friendship.
In the military, most friendships are situational, but I felt that we transcended that status. When we both received order to go to Iraq he commented that he guessed that "I was permanently stuck as his battle buddy." Our time in the sand wasn't exactly fun, but it was worthwhile. Being the kind of man he was, he told me to take the day off for my birthday. This was Christmas Eve, 2006. He covered for me. He took my spot. I have lived with the guilt every day since that Christmas. I ask myself all the time why him and why not me. The only answer I could get came from him. When I would complain and question things, he would reply, "Only God knows why." I am forever grateful for his life and his friendship. I hope Trey becomes the man his father was. I hope his family knows that he left an impact on those who were blessed with his presence.

Bill Gaskin

December 25, 2024

For all these years, during the Christmas season when there are quiet moments thoughts of the Clayton family enter my head. I didn't have the good fortune to know Capt Clayton in this life, but I will meet him at the time of God's choosing. As I get older, the days are longer but the years fly by. Somehow Trey is now in college. I don't know how that's possible. I wish the Clayton family all of God's richest blessings, especially those of peace and love. I haven't forgotten.

Marlena Clayton

December 24, 2024

SOME GAVE THEIR ENTIRE LIFE!! The Clayton Family sends love and prayers for peace, strength and encouragement to all the families that know what sacrifice is. God has continued to bless and keep us through the toughest moments. God took you on the day that we celebrate his son's birthday. That gives us great joy! God will help us to dry our eyes and be of good cheer. This too shall pass. Jr. I know you can't hear us, but it gives us joy to express our deep feelings for you! Your son "Trey" is now in college! We miss you dearly Jr. "Captain Hayes Clayton"

Eric Clayton

May 27, 2024

"....SOME GAVE ALL!!!" The Clayton family sends love and prayers for peace, strength and encouragement to all the families that know what sacrifice is. God has continued to bless and keep us through the toughest moments. Dry your eyes and be of good cheer,...."for this too shall pass"! Miss you you Jr.

John Ruths

May 26, 2024

I will never forget Hayes. We worked together for what amounted to just a few months in Korea but was a time that I'll never forget. What follows is something that I also just posted to Facebook. Hayes Clayton was not the only person I had the chance to get to know in the Army that was sadly lost to us but is one that I can never forget. Hayes was the Support Platoon Leader (PL) in HHC/2-9 Infantry when E Co./302nd Brigade Support Battalion was stood up. He went from being the Support PL in the HHC to the Distro PL in the new Forward Support Co. (FSC). Always highly motivated, dedicated, knowledgeable, a natural athlete, a leader, and could just flat-out get it done. He was also the first of four excellent Distro PLs that I had the pleasure of working with in my two years in company command. He was also the first Company Executive Officer or XO and, in the beginning, he was doing both jobs at once. He had future political aspirations and figured that serving in the military was a good way to start. We lost him near the end of his deployment to Iraq. Again, someone that I will never forget.

Marlena Clayton

December 25, 2023

Time has really flown by. You have been gone for 17 years and it doesn't seem like that to us. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from God. You were our gift, and your family truly misses you. When you were with us, your smile was genuine. People still talk about you, and say what a great person you were, and you were a wonderful son and brother. God had a plan for taking you away at the age of 29. We will never know his reason, but we put our trust in God and he has blessed us through these years. You will never be forgotten, because, you will always have a special place in our hearts.
Loving memories, the Entire Clayton Family!

Marlena

August 15, 2023

Correction on my part, Trey is now 17 years old. Thank God we make correction on my post in 8/14/23.

Marlena Clayton

August 14, 2023

You have been gone for 16 years. Today is your son's birthday "Hayes Clayton, III " Trey. He is 16 years old! Time seems to be flying. The family want to wish him a Happy Birthday and may his wishes come true for him today.
With all our Love!
The Entire Clayton Family!

Courtney Derell Johnson

May 31, 2023

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.

Eric Clayton

May 29, 2023

On this Memorial Day 2023, the Clayton family continues to rejoice in knowing that Hayes Clayton Jr. is not lost, but in the arms of our Lord and Savior. His sacrifice for others will never be forgotten and will live on in his son Tre and the rest of the family. Although time continues to move forward our memory will remain on the joy that HCJ brought to us all. You are throughly missed, but we know that you have made it in. Rest In Peace Brother, love you!

Marlena C Clayton

December 24, 2022

Today December 25th 2022, Time is really going fast. It's now been 16 years since God decided to call for you. Your family have been blessed so much by God, he continue to shower his blessings upon us. During this time of year we show our gratitude to Jesus, because we celebrate his birthday the same day we celebrate the day of the year you left this earth. We miss you dearly, also, we know that you can't hear us when we laugh and talk about you, but it's the memories that we hold so dearly in our hearts. Trey is now 16 years old. We will always love him because he is a part of you.
You will never be forgotten!
With Love
The Entire Clayton Family

MSG "Topster" Taylor

December 11, 2022

16 years this Christmas Day I sat on FOB Falcon waiting on all out BdE NPTT to come together for our Christmas Dinner, I remember the radio call, I remember us all jumping in vehicles to fly thru the marhallahs to get to you guys. A day I can never forget. You Sir are NOT Forgotten, nor Wheelous, my family and friends all know your story, and I share it will ALL my students every year. GODSPEED ~ MSG T

Marlena C Clayton

August 18, 2022

Wanted to give your son, Hayes Clayton III ( Trey ) A Happy Birthday shout out!! You are now 16 years old. Hope you had a great day !! August 14th!!!
Love your grandmother and the Entire Clayton Family

Marlena C Clayton

May 30, 2022

Today we honor all those that made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Your family miss you deeply on this day as well as other days. But this day is set aside for you all!.
Your son will carry on your name, which is a great thing! We love you son and you will always be forever in our hearts.
Love the entire Clayton Family!

LaToya

May 24, 2022

Today of all days you are heavily on my mind. We turn 45 this year and you're not here for me to tell you that you're getting old :). Continue to rest well my brother..... until we see each other again... Love your sister Punkin :)

Rufus Reed

May 23, 2022

RIP "Butter Q", from your sands 01' XE..

MaRhonda Norman

February 6, 2022

RIP Hayes
#wildcats4life #soldiers4life

Marlena C Clayton

January 3, 2022

Today is January 3, 2022
This is the first year I forgot to post something on the Anniversary of your death ( December 25, 2006 ) This virus ( COVID ) has people so confused. But we will always thank God for given us life, Your Family will never forget you! You will always have a place in our hearts. I know you can't hear us or see us, Your son means the world to us! Hayes Clayton III will forever have a place in our hearts! You will never been forgotten!
Love the entire Clayton Family 2022

Colleen Wright

June 1, 2021

To the Clayton Family, Captain Clayton is still in my heart. We can never thank your family enough for your sacrifice.

MARLENA CLAYTON

May 30, 2021

Another Memorial Day Celebration. ( Jr ) Captain Hayes Clayton and others made the ultimate sacrifice for us to have our freedom. I thank God for the ones that still remember your name. Your family will never forget you! I pray still to this day that your son Trey ( Hayes Clayton III ) will have your characteristics. He will be loved by us forever.
Our hearts miss you greatly. But God had other plans. A plan that we will never understand. But, we trust him.
The Entire Clayton Family ❤
Love You Forever❤

Trent Anderson

May 29, 2021

Another Memorial Day approaches and as I see car sales and barbecue ads my mind goes to the real reason for the day. Captain Clayton and his family have paid the price every year for the past 15 years. I tell my family and friends about him and the others I lost over there often. A person is not truly gone until their name is no longer spoken. I will carry his name, his actions, and his persona until my last breath. I pray for his family and mourn his lose, thankful to have known him.

Bill Gaskin

May 27, 2021

As Memorial Day approaches again, Captain Clayton is on my mind as are all of his family, especially his son. I wonder who Captain Clayton would be now. Would he have stayed in and been Colonel Clayton now? Would he be Senator Clayton? Those things were not meant for us to know, but we wonder. I hope this message finds all of the Clayton family safe, healthy and strong in faith. Much love to you all.

Marlena Clayton

December 25, 2020

Today is Christmas Day 12/25/2020
You have been gone for 14 years and we miss you. Your family pray each day for your son, Hayes Clayton III ( Trey ) that he will have your characteristics. Our focus is still on the Lord. Because we live a life that we will see him someday. What a good time that will be when we see Jesus. Thank you for the ultimate sacrifice. Love forever The Entire Clayton Family.

Trent Anderson

May 26, 2020

Every Memorial Day and Christmas My thoughts turn to Hayes. He was a good man, great brother, and excellent leader. I will remember you always. I pray for your family without ceasing.

Marlena Clayton

May 25, 2020

Today we honor our son, brother, Captain Hayes Clayton, for his ultimate sacrifice, your family will forever hold a candle in our hearts for you. God has kept us together and we thank him for it. We also honor other service members that lost their lives serving this country. May God give their family members peace in their hearts the way he has given us.
Your entire family will forever love and miss you.
The Clayton Family❤

Bill Gaskin

May 24, 2020

In a few hours it will be Memorial Day. Captain Clayton and his family are on my mind. I will never forget. Many thanks to the Clayton family for keeping this book open. Much love and respect to you all.

Bill Gaskin

December 24, 2019

Christmas Eve, and Captain Clayton and the Clayton family are on my mind. It's been thirteen years and we have not forgotten the enormous sacrifice.

Marlena Clayton

November 22, 2019

Today 11-22-2019, you would have been 42 years old. I thank God for the memories of you growing up, becoming the man that you became. I pray that your son will be more like you even though he didn't get a chance to meet you will he is growing up and finding himself, he is only 13 years old at this time. Your family will always carry your memories. Love Mom

Love you Bro.

Eric Clayton

May 28, 2019

Miss you brother.

Gianni Sims

May 27, 2019

Gone but never forgotten! Youre missed broski

Marlena Clayton

May 27, 2019

May 27, 2019
Another Memorial Day is upon us, a day people take the time remembering the ones who made that ultimate sacrifice, fighting for our country. It's a special day for us because your name is included in that great number of love ones who lost their lives. Your family miss your laughter, your smile and you always joking around. You were on your way being a great singer for the Lord. We are not angry because we trust God's decision. We still thank God for the time he gave you to us. Your name will go on until Jesus comes back and break those clouds. We're praying that your son be the man, just like his father, Captain Hayes Clayton, Jr.

Our prayer goes out to all the families that are troubled by the lost of their love ones. It's not an easy thing to deal with for some. May God Give Them Peace..

The Entire Clayton Family With Love!!

Samantha Grier

November 14, 2018

You was like a Big Brother growing up you are truly missed RIH JUNIOR

November 12, 2018

Your family loved you very much. Thank you for your ultimate sacrifice for our country.
The Clayton Family
11/12/2018

Marlena Clayton

May 28, 2018

We celebrate Memorial Day today and our family will never forget the sacrifice you made for your country. You will never be forgotten.
The entire Clayton Family

Marlena Clayton

December 25, 2017

As our family celebrates the birth of our savior today, we also remember our soldier, Jr who passed away years back. We encourage all family members who have deployed troops overseas to keep them in your prayers this Christmas. We will never forget your sacrifice. Merry Christmas!

Bill Gaskin

December 18, 2017

It's the Christmas season again. It's a time for family and traditions. It's a time of joy and it can be a stressful time. There is hustle and bustle and commercialization. But there is also reflection and worship. Childhood memories are recalled and new ones are made.

Through all that vies for our attention during this season, I just want the Clayton family to know that I have not forgotten Hayes. I speak of him and of your family often, both to God and to others.

With Deep Respect,

The Clayton Family

Marlena Clayton

November 22, 2017

Today,11/22/17, you would have turned 40 years old. We all have memories of you the time gave you here on this earth with us. Our faith have kept us together. You will never be forgotten, you will forever be in our hearts. I pray your son will be the man you became.
Love Always

The Clayton Family

Marlena Clayton

November 11, 2017

You made the ultimate sacrifice. We will never forget you. Love You Forever
Clayton Family

Memorial Day 2017

Marlena Clayton

May 29, 2017

Eric Clayton

May 29, 2017

Jr., Memories are what we cherish the most. We never got over your death, but have bonded together to get through your death. Brother you are missed, but we take pride in knowing that you came to know Jesus for yourself and that makes the your death less painful. It has been over 10 years and we still remember the smiles, the laughs, the love and joy. On this Memorial Day, we remember you and all the good times that we have shared. We continue to pray for your family and friends that they would also know the Love of God. Rest In Peace and know that we look forward to seeing you again when we all get up on that great day.
Love You Brother!!!!!!!

Marlena Clayton

December 25, 2016

It's been 10 years today you left this earth.
But, you will never be forgotten. You will remain in our memories forever. God is still keeping us in his care, and we are grateful. Thank you for your sacrifice. May God bless our military. The entire Clayton Family

December 24, 2016

Merry Christmas, Clayton Family. You are in our prayers, especially at this time of the year. The Wright Family

1SG JAMIE RUFFIN

December 24, 2016

Happy Holidays to the family of CPT Hayes Clayton Jr. Thinking of you during this time every year and may God continue to give strength daily.

1SG RUFFIN, JAMIE C SR
Fort Stewart, Georgia
U.S. Army

Brian Miller

December 23, 2016

Merry Christmas Clayton Family! It is my hope that this message finds you all well, in good spirits and great health. We have not forgotten your sacrifice and you remain in our prayers. God Bless!

Marlena Clayton

November 22, 2016

November 22,1977 was the day God let me borrow you to be your parent. Today you would have been 39 years old. You were truly a great son, you are so missed by your family. But, God has shown us how much he cares for his people through all we have gone through. You will never be forgotten.
Love The Entire Clayton Family

Marlena Clayton

August 14, 2016

Today is your son's birthday, Hayes Clayton III, August 14th, 2016. He's 10 years old. I would have loved to see your son grow up with you. But, God had another plan in mind. I love God and will always trust his decision by taking you when he did. My memory of you will never, ever leave my heart. Love forever you Mother.
Marlena Clayton

May 30, 2016

To the Family of Captain Hayes Clayton - I just want you to know that our family has not forgotten your son or his sacrifice. We are thankful for him and hope that we can honor him everyday, but especially today. Thank you is insufficient. My only hope is that it comforts you to know that others haven't forgotten him.

Sincerely,
Mike and Colleen Wright

Marlena Clayton

May 30, 2016

Today is 5/30/2016, we honor all the fallen soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice. But most of all we miss you. It seems that time is moving so fast, it doesn't seem like you left us 9 years ago.
But, life goes on. God is keeping us all strong through this process. I know that you are just sleeping waiting for Jesus to return and he soon will be here to gather together his children, it maybe today, month from now or 30 years from now, but he is coming back, and I hope to see you again. The Bible states that the dead in Christ will rise first. We shall meet again son. The entire Clayton Family will never forget you. Love You Forever. Mom

December 25, 2015

This entry is in memory of Captain Hayes Clayton on the 9th anniversary of his passing. A consummate man who loved his family and made the ultimate sacrifice.

Marlena Clayton

December 25, 2015

Today we celebrate Jesus's Birthday and we also celebrate the memories you gave your family. We still talk and laugh about you, we will cherish that forever. Thank you for your sacrifice. But God sent his only son to die for us. That was the ultimate sacrifice. We wish we could tell you how much we love you. Nine years you left us, but your memories will always be with us. Dad, Mom, Eric, & Michael and the entire Family.

Brian Miller

December 17, 2015

Merry Christmas Clayton Family. I wanted you to know that you guys are ever present in our minds during this time of year. Hayes truly lived a life worth celebrating.

God Bless and Happy Holidays!

Brian Miller and Family

1SG JAY C. RUFFIN SR

November 22, 2015

Gone but not forgotten. .Happy Birthday CPT HAYES "BUTTA QUE" CLAYTON

Marlena Clayton

November 21, 2015

November 22, 2015 you would have been 38 years old. I can only imagine the father, the brother,the son,the man you would have been. The Clayton Family, are so grateful for the time God gave you to us. Sometimes we forget that God is in control of our lives, we are selfish at times, we want our love ones to be with us forever. As a mother, I will always remember the day you were born and the day you made that ultimate sacrifice for your country. Your dad and your brothers often talk about you, nothing sad, but the joy God gave you, to share with us. God is Good All the Time. He never makes mistakes.
Love
Your Entire Family

Hayes Clayton III

Marlena Clayton

August 14, 2015

August 14th is your son's birthday. Happy Birthday to Hayes Clayton III. You are gone but not forgotten. Will forever love your memories.

June 8, 2015

My condolences to the Clayton family. Sorry for your loss. Please find comfort in Gods word.

Marlena Clayton

May 24, 2015

On this Memorial Day my thoughts are of you. You have a new nephew, his name is Matthew Hayes, although you are not here in body, your name still continue to bring life in our hearts of you. Your sacrifice will never be forgotten. With Love From The Entire Clayton Family.

Marlena Clayton

December 25, 2014

Today, you would have been gone from us for 8 years. We are not sad, because we also celebrate Jesus's Birthday today. God said that we shouldn't put anything before him, not even our children. Your family is doing just fine, because, we will never forget the sacrifice you made for your country and your family. May God continue to bless Hayes III ( Trey ) Love You Forever. The Clayton Family.

Marlena Clayton

November 22, 2014

My son, today you would have been 37 years old. But I thank God for the 29 years he gave you to me. The day you were born to me and your dad, will always be remembered. Love Forever, Your Mom & Dad

Courtney Murphy Gray

November 11, 2014

On this Veteran's Day, I pay respect and gratitude to Hayes and remember him as a kind and funny high school classmate. His sacrifice for this country will never be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. Sending love and light your way.

Rashad & Kimberlee Jones

November 11, 2014

Thanks my friend! Rest Peaceful!

Marlena Clayton

November 11, 2014

Thank you for your ultimate sacrifice. You will forever be in heart. A mom's love forever.

Eric Clayton

November 11, 2014

Jr., On this day that we celebrate Veterans, we remember the ultimate sacrifice that you paid for our freedom. Mom, Dad and the rest of us miss you very much and words cannot express the absence of your presence during the holidays. We wish you could see your son grow into the little person that he is. Rest In Peace brother we will always love you.

1SG JAMIE RUFFIN SR

October 22, 2014

Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.

Felicia Willis

August 23, 2014

Missing You my Sweet Friend & I Hope to see you again one day....Rest in Peace & in God's Arms Hayes. Xoxoxoxo

Marlena Clayton

August 21, 2014

How I wish you could have lived to see your son grow up, he's 8 years old now. But, God knew best. Love you forever. Your Mom

Angela McGhee-Wright

May 26, 2014

Not many days go by that I don't think about you. You are the perfect example of how one person can touch so many. I am glad that you touched my life. God Bless.

Marlena Clayton

May 25, 2014

Today is Memorial Day, the family miss you and will always love you. Life has no sorrow that Heaven cannot heal. Praying for your son that he will know your family. Love is the greatest commandment of them all. We will continue to do so, because it is the right thing to do. Love you forever!

Hayes just relaxing at home.

Marlena Clayton

May 25, 2014

MSG Scott S. Harris, USA (Ret)

December 31, 2013

I was one of the eleven men on Military Transition Team 0842 serving with CPT Hayes Clayton Jr in al-Iskandariyah, Iraq. The last time I saw him was on Dec 24, 2006 just before I boarded a helicopter to begin a trip home on R&R. He was such an energetic professional Soldier and a kind generous man who loved his family dearly. His infectious spirit and positive outlook touched all those who came in contact with him. I've never known a harder day than Christmas 2006 when I learned of his injuries and later his passing. It was my distinct honor to serve with you Sir. Your presence is missed by so many. Rest in peace Brother.

Pastor Sam Frazier

December 27, 2013

Well bless the Lord, we truly miss Jr,as Dad Clayton so often called Him. Hayes II was a very good Brother and friend. Some time I want to ask why, but are quickly reminded that God don't make mistakes. Our prayers are that God continue to give His strengthen to the Clayton Family and that Trey gets to visit his Grand father & mother every Year.

Brian Miller

December 6, 2013

Greetings Clayton Family
As men, we don't often express our love and admiration for each other, but I knew Hayes from college, FVSU, and that dude had a smile that could light up any room. He had an undeniable prescence. It was a please to have known him and Mike. I think of him and you all often, and I hope that this message finds you well and in great spirits. I just wanted yall to know that after the phone calls and the visits ended, that there are many of us who still think of him, admire him, and miss him. God bless yall and Merry Christmas
[email protected]

Mike Clayton

November 12, 2013

Miss you brother...

Marlena Clayton

November 11, 2013

Thank you for the ultimate service you made. Your family will always love you and will never forget you.
The Entire Clayton Family

LaToya Robinson

September 12, 2013

On this National Day of Service (Patriot's Day), I had the privilege of volunteering for Habitat Humanity's "Hero Build" in honor of you. I thank you for your great service for our country. Love your sister!

Marlena Clayton

August 16, 2013

Your son was 7 years old on August 14th.
Hayes Clayton III ( Trey )
Wish you were here, but God knew best.
Love Always Mom

Samantha Grier

June 27, 2013

GONE BUT NEVER WILL BE FORGOTTEN ALWAYS WILL BE IN MY HEART. I STILL THINK OF YOU ESPECIALLY WHEN YOU AND MICHEAL USE TO TRY TO PUT ME DIYELL AND SHON IN THE TRUCK FOR FUN. LOL GOD DONT MAKE NO MISTAKE SO YOU JUST CONTINUE TO REST LOVE YOU BIG BRO.

Trent Anderson

May 27, 2013

"I pray that our heavenly Father may assuage the anguish of your bereavement, and leave you only the cherished memory of the loved and lost, and the solemn pride that must be yours to have laid so costly a sacrifice upon the altar of freedom." Godspeed my brother

Eric Clayton

May 27, 2013

Got a chance to visit my brother's grave and reflect on his life. He along with all the other soldiers that gave all for our country is something we should never forget. JR you are missed very much and we are still praying to see your son grow up healthy and strong. LOVE YOU BROTHER!!!!

Brandon Robinson

May 20, 2013

Rest in peace good brother.

Nadia Ford

May 20, 2013

I remember you Hayes back at FVSU. You were such a character. And always kept me laughing. And know that you were loved by so many. RIP

May 19, 2013

Hayes, been thinking a lot about our deployment lately, and the last time I saw you right before Christmas Day. Lost a lot of good Soldiers on that deployment, and I think about you all often. You are not forgotten. Rest in the arms of the Lord my friend. I know I will see you again someday in Heaven.

Marlena Clayton

April 13, 2013

Today is not a holiday, nor is it a day of sadness, it's a day where my thoughts are just thinking of your son more than normal. I just pray that we will get a chance to see him. It's been 4 years now. But, God is still good to our family and we Thank Him Everyday for his Goodness and Mercy.
We Will Forever Love You!
Love Your Family

David and Regina Cooper

December 26, 2012

Rest in peace dear nephew. We will always love and miss you.

DOROTHY TEAL

December 26, 2012

RIP COUSIN

Eric Clayton

December 26, 2012

On this day "Christmas" we "The Claytons" celebrate the birth of Jesus, we also remember the death of Hayes Clayton Jr. on this same day in 2006. He is missed but loved and we are living the life that we may see him again. God does not make mistakes and we believe that he has gone to be with the Lord. God Bless the soldiers, God Bless our nation and God Bless our families.

Tiffany Wilder

December 25, 2012

You are always on my mind....miss you Hayes!!

Sherri Clayton

December 25, 2012

On this day we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior and also remember you my brother. We Love You and Miss You!!

Eric Clayton

December 25, 2012

Today, we "The Claytons" celebrate the birth of Jesus who gave us the right back to the tree of life and the death of our beloved Hayes Clayton Jr. who was killed this day in 2006 serving our country to protect our freedom. His sacrifice will never be forgotten!!! His life was not cut short nor was he taken too soon, for we believe that GOD does not make mistakes and therefore it was his time. Jr., as we called him, was called by GOD while doing what he wanted and loved. What better way to leave this Earth than to go on the day that we celebrate Jesus. Jr. was rough and tough, but also caring and silly and he would not want us to sit around crying for him. His service is done.

WE LOVE YOU JR. and are praying that when GOD calls us, we are doing what we should be so that we see you again. GOD BLESS the soldiers, GOD BLESS our nation and GOD BLESS our families.

Glen Gosier

December 25, 2012

RIP Tre dog

Peggy Childers

December 25, 2012

To the family and friends of Capt. Hayes Clayton:
Always remembering Hayes. "Some gave all."

Bill Gaskin

December 23, 2012

It's December 23 and this year, I find myself in the Middle East. I never had the privilege of meeting you in this life, Captain Clayton. Still, through your family, you have had a remarkable impact on my life. I wish the world could have seen what you would have become. Warmest wishes to the Clayton family and as always, a reminder that I will not forget. See you when my time is done, Captain.

Marlena Clayton

November 22, 2012

Today is Thanksgiving, and I give praises to God Almighty for this day. Because, he has been good to us. But, also today would have been your 35th Birthday. You would have been a great father to your son, Trey. We are still praying for him that he will be like you. God is a good God. Thank you for your great sacrifice.
Love Mom & Dad

July 14, 2012

Although I did not know him personally, only through the eyes of others. However, I can see that Hayes Clayton was a man of honor & respect. To his family, I am sorry for your loss and wish you nothing but the best.

Courtney Johnson

June 12, 2012

Thinking of you today...RIP

May 29, 2012

Be thou at Peace Brother

May 29, 2012

Be thou at Peace my brother.

May 28, 2012

Visited your gravesite today, put new flowers down, just to show how much your dad and I love you and honor you for the great sacrifice you made for your country. You will never be forgotten.
Love Mom & Dad
Hayes & Marlena Clayton

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How to support Hayes's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

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Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

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Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

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How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

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The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

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Ways to honor Hayes Clayton's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

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How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

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How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

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Sign Hayes Clayton's Guest Book

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May 26, 2025

Eric Clayton posted to the memorial.

May 22, 2025

Marlena Clayton posted to the memorial.

December 28, 2024

MSG JT Taylor posted to the memorial.