James F. Clayton

James F. Clayton, age 56, of Galesburg, Illinois; passed away at 6:39 P.M. on Tuesday, August 22, 2017 at Galesburg Cottage Hospital in Galesburg, IL. Jim was born on August 7, 1961 in Peoria, Illinois and is the son of Ernest R. and Nadine F. Strausbaugh Clayton. He was raised in Monmouth where he attended Monmouth schools and Monmouth High School. After attaining his GED Jim received welding training at Carl Sandburg College in Galesburg, Illinois. Jim was formerly married and divorced. He was employed at Maytag Corporation in Galesburg until it was closed. He also was a handyman and carpenter and did various work as such in the area. Jim loved his family and his grandchildren. He is survived by his daughter, Sarah Beth Ray (David) of Galesburg, Illinois and two sons, Noah Ray and Kiefer Ray, both of Galesburg, Illinois. He has five grandchildren surviving. Two sisters survive, Kathy Fainter of St.Joseph, IL. and Mary Beth Briggs (Jack) of Tolono, IL. There are two brothers, Monty (Melanie) Clayton of Valley View, Texas and Charles (Cathy Ann) Clayton of Springfield, Missouri. He is preceded in his death by his grandparents, parents, and a son, Jeremiah. Gathering of Family and Friends A gathering of his family and friends is planned by his family from 10:00-Noon on Monday, August 28, 2017 at Turnbull Funeral Home in Monmouth, Illinois. Cremation rites have been accorded. A memorial fund is being established by his family.