CLAYTON, RONALD LEE
It is with deep sadness, the family announces the death of Ronald Lee Clayton, age 57, of St. Martins, NB, husband of Shelly (Hayes) Clayton, which occurred on Wednesday, February 4, 2015, at the Saint John Regional Hospital. He was born on September 14, 1957 in Ottawa, ON, a son of the late Donald and Blanche (MacDonald) Clayton.

Ron's rare wit and compassion for all that he undertook will be greatly missed by many. Ron's attention to detail and talent is evident in many of the projects he did for St. Martins as well as the many personal projects he took on. Ron loved refinishing furniture and had a remarkable knack at bringing each piece back to its former glory. It was not unusual for Ron to lead you to his garage or basement to gaze upon, what looked to most as a rickety old pile of wood, and light up as he explained how he was going to resurrect it. He was not one to boast of his talents; however, they have not gone unnoticed and are admired by many.

Ron loved old cars, carpentry, poker, hockey, the daily coffee club and the Toronto Maple Leafs. While all these were close to his heart, it was family and friends that he held most dearest. His smile was infectious and was most radiant when with his granddaughter, Darcy. Ron met many wonderful people through Bill W. and was grateful for his opportunity to support and share with them.

Ron loved to go for drives and taking in the beauty of our landscape and coastline. He had an ability to find humour in most anything and an unfiltered directness would cause a bust of smiles on those around him. A talent he held fast right up until he passed. Ron's strength and fearlessness throughout his journey was nothing short of remarkable as he thought mostly of others.

Ron is survived by his much loved and cherished wife for 21 years, Shelly; sons Matthew Hayes (Robin) of Moncton, NB, Alex Clayton of St. Martins, NB, Derek Clayton (Kelly Porter) of St. Martins, NB; granddaughter Darcy Hayes; mother-in-law Lorena Hayes; sisters Donalda Gillis, Nancy Campbell (Lyle), Heather Clarke (Brian); brothers Jack Clayton, Rick Clayton (Pam), Gary Clayton; sisters-in-law Joanne Clayton, Susan Taylor (Peter), Sharon Hayes; brothers-in-law Warren Hayes (Nancy), Patrick Hayes (Ivy), Murray Hayes (Sandra), Randy Hayes (Leah); he will also be remember by several nieces, nephews and cousins. Besides his parents he was also predeceased by his brother Timmy Clayton; father-in-law Patrick Hayes and brother-in-law James Hayes.

He is resting at St. Williams Catholic Church, 2354 Route 111, St. Martins, with visiting on Sunday, February 8, 2015 from 6 to 8 PM and Monday from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8PM. Mass of Christian Burial, conducted by Father John Mooney, will be held from the church on Tuesday, February 10, 2015 at 11 AM. Interment will take place in the adjoining cemetery in the Spring.

Reid’s Funeral Home (506-832-5541), 1063 Main Street, Hampton, NB, are entrusted with arrangements. Donations in memory of Ron, may be made to a Living Memorial or to the memorial of the donor’s choice. Personal condolences to the family and donations may be made through ReidsFH.com