SPENCERVILLE — Howard Clayton passed away Tuesday, February 20th surrounded by his family at St. Rita's Medical Center. He was 72. Howard was born September 10, 1945 in Earle Arkansas to Clyde and Nellie (Andrew) Clayton. Both preceded him in death. At the age of 16 he followed his sister to Ohio and started working at Ohio Decorative Products in Spencerville where he became supervisor until his retirement 46 years later.

On May 2, 1970 he was united in marriage to Leonteen Gritzmaker Jackson, who preceded him in death on July 9, 2014. He is survived by their daughter Aimee Clayton of Lima, and 2 step daughters, Stephania (Tom) Keller of Virginia and Julie (Gary) Fought of Lima, 5 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews, sister Donna (Larry) Lynn of Arkansas, friend and ex sister in law Carrie Steinke. One step daughter, Darcy (Patrick) Barthel who is deceased. Howard was 1 of 11 children. He was preceded in death by Louise (Sam) Linley, Herbert, Troy, Woodrow, James, Andrew, his twin brother, Herman, Ruth (Donald) Burke and Mary (Roland) Resor.

He enjoyed spending time with his daughter Aimee and their horses Fancy and Babyface. He and his dog Lulu were best buds.

At his request there will be no visitation. His cremated remains will join his wife at Pearl Cemetery, in Anna, Ohio. Private graveside services will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to: Mary Ann Brown Facility, 2450 Mandolin Drive, Lima, OH 45801.

Thomas E. Bayliff Funeral Home of Spencerville will be handling arrangements. Condolences may be sent to tbayliff@woh.rr.com.