Robert James Clayton

Robert James Clayton was born January 10, 1956 in Laurel, MS to Nellie Mae Clayton. He accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized at Church of Christ in Laurel.

Robert attended Lockport and Joliet Public Schools along with Joliet Junior College. He was a Marine who served in Japan during his enlistment, receiving an Honorable Discharge. Robert retired from IYC-Joliet after 30 years of service due to failing health. He continued weightlifting and loved a good challenge or competition with his family and friends. Many years were spent being active in sports playing basketball, softball and bowling to which he had four 300 games. As much as he loved to play sports when he could, he enjoyed watching Basketball and Football. He had favorite players Dr. J and teams SF 49ers but was awaiting the budding career of James Wiseman with The Detroit Pistons this season. He had other talents to which he was proud of his self taught carpentry skills and remodeling skills. Sharing his bbq skills and food with anyone accepting. He was loving and generous with his wisdom and kept his family and friends in stitches with his quick wit and laughter.

He is preceded in death by his mother Nellie Clayton, brother Henry Clayton, daughter Tieesha Walker, sister in law Joan Farris, brothers in law Gene, Excell, Wendell and Lester Farries. Grandparents Lillie Mae and James Clayton, aunt Everta Sims, uncles B.C., Breyland and William Clayton, cousins Michelle, Clyde and others.

Robert leaves to cherish his memory a loving, devoted caregiving wife Vivian (nee) Farries, children Robert (Robin), Laderick, Rob (Crystal) Gray. Grandchildren, in-laws in love Marshall (Sherry), Stanley (Areta), Gary (Omaira), Brian (Brenda), Rosemary, Joyce, Brenda, Carolyn (John) Rattliff and Sherry. A host of precious nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles whom he loved as siblings and numerous cousins. Dearest friends, Richard Wright, Dexter Morris and Phil McMullen.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 14, 2023 at Tezak Funeral Home, 1211 Plainfield Rd., Joliet from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.
Family and friends are invited to attend visitation at 8:30 a.m. before chapel services beginning  on Friday, September 15, 2023 at the funeral home at 10:00 a.m. with burial to follow at Elmhurst Cemetery with military honors.