James Clayton

For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand.  James Henry Clayton was ready when he departed this life on December 13, 2024, surrounded by family.  He patiently accepted God’s will during his illness and in his last days.  

James was born on February 20, 1941, in Westmoreland County, Virginia to the late Sue Clayton Braxton and Joe Frasier Smith.  He was raised by loving foster parents, Johnson and Ella Thompson.  He never left them and remained at the home place until his death.  He was educated in the Westmoreland County School System and joined the Zion Baptist Church at an early age.

James was quiet and always ready to help.  He assisted around the church and received a certificate from the Trustees for his dedication and loyal service in 1997.  He loved to garden, to watch westerns, to keep his vehicle clean and he loved his horse, Pete.  In addition, he loved to EAT!  James worked at Potomac Supply for over 30 years before retiring.  

James leaves to cherish his memory a sister, Christine Braxton of Colonial Beach Virginia; two dedicated cousins Charles and Keisha Johnson who cared for him during his illness; nieces, nephews. cousins and friends.  

James was preceded in death by his parents, foster parents, stepfather Howard Braxton and sister Carrie M. Ball Jones.

A Funeral Service for James Clayton will be held on Friday, December 27 at 12 Noon in the sanctuary of the Zion Baptist Church, 1274 Zion Church Road, Kinsale, Virginia.

Interment will follow in the Zion Baptist Church Cemetery.

Remains may be viewed from 11AM until service time on Friday, December 27 at Zion Baptist Church.

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