John L. Clayton Jr.

John L. Clayton Jr., 77, passed away on May 26, 2022, at Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD. Born on August 28, 1944, to John L. Clayton and Alberta Clayton Ewart, he was a lifelong resident of Toms River, NJ, before retiring to the Florida Keys.

John's early education was completed at Toms River Elementary and Toms River High School (South), followed by further studies at Temple University and the Eccles School of Mortuary Science in Philadelphia, PA. He began his career at Plainfield Funeral Home from 1964 to 1969 and later established Clayton Contracting, where he worked until his retirement in 2002.

A man of faith, John was a dedicated member of the 1st Presbyterian Church of Toms River, NJ. His commitment to community and heritage was evident in his roles as Past President of the New Jersey Decoy Collector Association and a past board member of the Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art. These positions underscored his passion for antique decoy collecting, a significant part of his life, especially in retirement.

Besides his professional and community contributions, John found joy in fishing, a favorite pastime during winters in the Florida Keys.

John is survived by his wife, Darie Marie Clayton; a son, John L. Clayton III; a daughter, Dawn Arcalas and her husband, Joven; stepson, Alex Leuzzi; sister, Linda Waytena and her husband Dr. James Waytena; granddaughters, Nichole and Kelsey; uncle, Richard Clayton and his wife, Ann Clayton; brother-in-law, Rene Wagner; and brother-in-law, Craig Wagner and his wife, Pam Wagner. He also leaves behind several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Services for John were conducted privately.

John's life was marked by his dedication to his family, his passion for his hobbies, and his service to his community. His legacy will be cherished and remembered by all who knew him.