Jack Clayton

Jack Clayton
Jack N. Clayton passed away on January 17, 2025, at the age of 68. Born on May 4, 1956, in Streator, Illinois, he was the son of the late Jack and Marjorie Jean (O'Neil) Clayton.
Jack graduated from Streator Township High School in the class of 1974.He found his professional calling at Caterpillar in Aurora and later at the Comed Dresden Plant, where he dedicated himself to the mechanical maintenance department until his retirement in 2018.
In 2002, Jack's life was brightened when he met Sandy Henson. Their love story was one for the books, culminating in marriage in 2005. Together, they made a warm and welcoming home in Coal City, where they shared many joyful years. Jack is survived by his loving wife, Sandy; his children, Jason (Jennifer) Summers, Jennifer (James) Hampton, and Jeff Clayton; and his grandchildren, Anna (Gavin) Vella, Brooke Vella, Natalie Summers, Brighton Summers, and Paige Summers. He was also a doting great-grandfather to Avielyn Bensa. His legacy continues through his sisters, Wendy Ward and Kathy (Chuck) Ragusa, and a host of nieces and nephews who will carry on his memory.
Jack was preceded in death by his parents, his son Jack Michael "JC" Clayton, his sister Sally, and brother-in-law Greg Ward.
A man of many interests, Jack found joy in the great outdoors, often camping at Coal City Area #1 Club and the Ceco Club. Jack's love for his grandchildren knew no bounds, and he cherished every moment spent with them. Jack also had a fondness for gathering with friends and family over a slice of pizza at Bianchis in Ottawa.
God saw he was getting tired,
And a cure was not to be;
So he put his arms around him,
And whispered, "Come with me".
With tearful eyes we watched him suffer,
And saw him fade away;
Although we loved him dearly,
We could not make him stay.
A golden heart stopped beating,
Hard working hands to rest.
God broke our hearts to prove to us,
He only takes the best.
A memorial gathering to celebrate Jack's life will be held on Friday, January 24, 2025 from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the UC Davis-Callahan Funeral Home in Morris. A celebration of Jack's life will follow at 7:00 pm officiated by Pastor Kevin Yandell. Cremation rites will be accorded.
An online guestbook has been made for the family, where you may sign the guestbook, share memories and photographs. You can access this by visiting the website at www.ucdaviscallahan.com. Arrangements have been entrusted with U.C. Davis-Callahan Funeral Home, 301 W. Washington Street, Morris, IL.