James LeRoy Clayton

I graduated as a History major from The U of U in 2001. From 1999-2001, I had the honor of having Dr. Clayton twice, the last being for US Constitutional history (though I didn't know it at the time, it would have a profound effect on me both personally and professionally) in 2000. I also read his book "The global debt bomb" and could could see his foreshadowing. He had the reputation of being a demanding teacher and a hard grader. He was also a kind person that gladly took the time to engage...

Jim was my favorite person to sit beside at the monthly "Monday Nighters" group (the group took me in, graciously, when I married Ted Wilson in 2004). He was brilliant and a gifted conversationalist. And he was funny. I always looked forward to his dry wit and hearing of his rich life experiences in government, academia and just...the world. I will miss Jim. I send love to all of the family.

Jim was one of the best and most influential teachers that helped direct my life. After taking his "Nature and Functions of Law" honors class I asked for a letter of recommendation to Law School. He said he would, but added, "What in the world do you want to be a lawyer? You have the best job in the world." I went home that night and thought about it and came to the conclusion that he was right and I stayed with my career as a photojournalist. We remained friends and enjoyed skiing a...

I had a wonderful class through the Honors Program on the History of the US Constitution in the mid 1980s. What a great teacher! This class and one on business law taught by Jim Jardine constitute the full extent of my formal legal education and have served me pretty well over many years now. My best to your family!

I will very much miss Jim. I looked to him as a mentor when he returned to the Department of History. Many lunches followed after he retired when we dug deep into historical matters. So sad to hear that my friend as passed.

During my Senior year at the University of Utah (1985), Dr Clayton taught a remarkable class on Global Economics. Dr Clayton challenged me to dig deep in my studies and research and lead lively discussions where all felt comfortable to share opinions. God bless the Clayton family. Thank you for sharing your brilliant father/grandfather.