Donald (Donnie) Forrest Clayton

October 28, 2025

Donald (Donnie) Forrest Clayton, a loving husband, father, grandfather, and dedicated servant of his country and faith, passed away peacefully at his home in Pensacola, Florida.

Donnie was born on July 15, 1940, in Columbus, Mississippi, to the late Denver Lee and Kay Clayton of Reform, Alabama. He was raised in Reform at the natural gas plant, a place that shaped his early life.

Donnie proudly answered the call to service, joining the U.S. Military. He bravely served his country over 20 years in the U.S. Army, including several tours of duty in Vietnam.

After his military service, Donnie pursued a life of faith and learning, attending Bible Seminary with Conrad Murrell in Bentley, Louisiana. He spent many years fellowshipping and serving at Fellowship of Jesus Christ Church in Gordo, Alabama, a community that was dear to his heart.

Donnie is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara Clayton, of Pensacola, Florida.

He was a devoted father and is survived by his sister, Lana Clayton, his daughters, Angela Barberi and Mechelle Hodgens, his step-daughter, Debbie Thomas and step-son David Lyon, and his daughters in law Iris Barberi and Erin Lyon, sons in law Rodney Hodgens and Stephen Thomas .

Donald cherished his role as a grandfather to Matt Funderburk, Casey Blair, Will Blair, Paul Blair, and Tessa Funderburk.

In accordance with his wishes, Donnie’s cremated remains will be laid to rest next to his mother at Graham Memorial Cemetery in Reform, Alabama

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Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under Obituaries