Jackie Ray Clayton

Jackie Ray Clayton, known affectionately as Jack to his friends and family, passed away on Friday, January 10, 2025, in Purcell, Oklahoma at the age of 66 years. He was born on September 30, 1958, in Amarillo, Texas. Jack's life was a testament to his robust spirit and love for his family, work, and hobbies.

Jack is lovingly remembered by his devoted wife, Deborah Clayton of Hennepin, Oklahoma, and his cherished daughter, Jennifer Lynn Clayton, and her husband AJ Hamill, also of Hennepin. His legacy continues through his adored grandchildren, Jaxon Perry, Jesse Perry, Lynnlee Perry, DJ Perry, Erick Hamill, Lilly Marie Clayton, and Race McCaslin, who will miss their grandfather's warmth and wisdom. Jack's memory will also be held dear by his siblings, Billy Clayton and wife Janet, Joe Clayton and wife Sarah, Sharon Stogsdill and husband Bill, Becky Ball and husband Ronnie, and Vickie Hutchinson, along with numerous nieces and nephews who were touched by his kind-hearted nature.

Preceding him in death were his beloved son, Jeremy Robert Clayton, and his parents, Dorothy and Clyde Clayton. Jack's absence will be deeply felt by all who knew and loved him.

Jack's professional life was marked by his exceptional skill and passion for construction and mechanics. He spent many years working on various construction projects, showcasing his versatility and dedication to his craft. Later in life, he found his true calling at Marks Machine Shop, where he took great joy in building engines and forming lasting friendships with his colleagues. Despite having to retire due to health concerns, the memories of his work and the relationships he built there remained a source of pride and happiness.

Growing up on a Quarter Horse farm, Jack developed a profound appreciation for the beauty and grace of these magnificent animals. However, his heart belonged to a different kind of horsepower—racecars. His enthusiasm for racing brought him together with a close-knit group of friends, including Kenneth McWaters, Bill Flurry, and Mark Brill, who became honorary uncles to his children. Jack's passion for racecars was more than a hobby; it was a significant part of who he was and how he connected with the world around him.

Jack's journey through life was marked by the joy he found in simple pleasures, the work he accomplished with his hands, and the immeasurable love he had for his family and friends. His spirit, humor, and kindness will be remembered by all who were fortunate enough to cross paths with him.

A memorial service to celebrate Jack's life will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at Hibbs Funeral Home Chapel in Choctaw, Oklahoma.

Family and friends may share memories online at www.hibbsfuneralchoctaw.com. Services are under the care of Hibbs Funeral Home & Cremation Care Center, located at 2190 N. Harper Road, Choctaw, Oklahoma 73020, 405-390-2626.