Smokey Clayton

M. Smokey Clayton, 75, of Monrovia, an American muscle car MOPAR loving Chrysler-Dodge enthusiast and fanatic, was called to the end of his race, while working on his racecar, on Sunday afternoon, March 7, 2021, due to sudden heart failure while doing exactly what he loved in the comfort of his own shop and surroundings. Born in Indianapolis, on July 20, 1945, he was raised by the late Roy and Ruby (Zaring) Clayton. A reputably skilled and self-taught mechanic, Smokey Clayton was a friend to many and a pillar within the community. He was a 1963 Alumni of Monrovia High School and dedicated 31 years of service to the Monroe – Gregg School Districts servicing the Bus Garage. In addition to being self-employed at Clayton Services, he previously owned a Marathon fuel station and was a mechanic at International Harvester. Smokey was drafted overseas in 1965, where he was inducted into the U.S. Army and bravely served his country in the Vietnam War. An obstinate and competitive character, Smokey was more than stubborn and a man of his word. Known to keep a vision; he was, efficient, particular and everything he did was completed with a purpose. His passion for motors and muscle cars was pursued with a successful mechanical career and he mastered his trade. Whether there were problems with the motor, transmissions, or chips; Smokey Clayton was the man for the job. With a work hard and play harder mindset, he was known to splurge on his toys; valuing his possessions and certain to see they were kept in immaculate condition. His laugh that was contagious and he was generous, loving, and loyal to all that were in his circle. Breaking three world records in drag racing, he followed the power tour and frequently participated at Freedom and Brown County tracks. Possessing a need for speed, he was always up for road trips and could drive for thousands of miles. Earning his best good living by doing what he loved while eating Chevy's and shitting Fords, Smokey was a die-hard MOPAR-Dodge man. Life without cars and racing was no life at all and his purpose was to either be driving or fixing them. Smokey poured his love and labor into everything he did. His family was most important, and he loved to be surrounded in their company. He shared many local lifelong friendships and had friends at Dale Hollow Lake where he and Lynn made the trip most every weekend to enjoy their 45 ft. Sea Ray that was kept in a covered slip at Sulphur Creek Resort. Preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Ruby Clayton; his biological father, Gordon Blue; sister, Jackie Hatton; mother-in-law, Aletha “Skeeter” Ecoff. Survivors include his loving wife, Lynn Clayton; to whom he was united in marriage on January 27, 1983. Children, Brian Clayton (companion, Danielle Terry) of Monrovia and Jennifer Martin (husband, Alex) of New Palestine; step-kids, Darryl Clements (wife, Danene), Tammy Denny (husband, Todd) both of Monrovia and Kim Obermeyer (husband, Terry) of Bristow, Virginia; grandkids, Grayden, Alyssa, Dalton, Dayton (wife, Tyley), Dalen, Austin, Jared, Erika, Brycen, and Bradyn; siblings, Mary Curtis (husband, Bill), Tammy McKenzie (husband, Terry), Mike Blue (wife, Linda), Jan Magness (husband, Winston) and Linda Covington; father-in-law, Tom Ecoff of Greenwood, brother-in-law, Mike Williams (wife, Debbie) of Monrovia; along with several nieces and nephews that he loved dearly, and friends like family from the lake and at home. Per Smokey's wishes, there will be no public viewing or wake prior to cremation. Services were entrusted to Light Memorial & Funeral Chapel, and his ashes will be inurned at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery, Hall. Friends and family are invited to comfortably dress in jeans and stand outside for Military Honors and a brief Graveside Service that Pastor Jack Elliott will begin officiating at 3:00 p.m., on Sunday, March 14, 2021 in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery, Hall. A Celebration of Life Informal Gathering will immediately follow at Ted Everett’s Auction Barn located on State road 39. Any food pitch-in and drink donations may be coordinated with Danielle Terry; to whom will also receive your donated items at the auction barn on Sunday from noon -2:00pm. To share a favorite story, send an online condolence, order an arrangement or pick out a sympathy gift to be delivered directly to a family member visit www.lightmemorial.com.

Tributes

Smokey Clayton

July 20, 1945 - March 7, 2021