William Clayton Heaton
March 14, 1922 ~ January 4, 2013
William Clayton Heaton, formerly of Weirton, WV, passed away peacefully at his home in Port St. Lucie, FL on Friday, January 4, 2013. Clayton was born in Springfield, TN on March 14, 1922 to the late Lloyd and Annie Lou (Morgan) Heaton. Clayton was also preceded in death by sisters Ann Lloyd Stuart and Minnie Mae Webster and brother Hiram Ralph Heaton.
He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Maudelee (Scott) Heaton; daughter Judi (Jim) Recht of Dover, CO; son Don (Robyn) Heaton of Wellsburg, WV and daughter Patty Williams of Port St. Lucie, FL. He is also survived by his grandchildren Marc (Erica) Recht of Wellesley Hills, MA, Tracy (Will) Daniels of Durango, CO, Ami (Ted) Dodd of Wheeling, WV, Joshua Heaton of Wellsburg, WV, Jason (Nicole) Williams of Pittsburgh, PA, Heather (John) Halfhill of Springfield, VA and Chad Williams (Bethany Huff) of Mars, PA and 10 great-grandchildren.
In 1941, he graduated from Follansbee High School. Clayton was truly a member of the greatest generation, serving as a pilot of the 463rd Bomb Group, flying out of Foggia, Italy during WWII. He earned a Purple Heart for being wounded when his plane and crew were heavily fired upon over Germany. He also received 5 Bronze Stars, the Air Medal, European Operations Ribbon, 2 Oak Leaf Clusters and a legislative citation from the State of WV recognizing that he had been nominated for the Distinguished Flying Cross.
He worked as an electrician in the power house of Weirton Steel for 45 years. He was a member of both Memorial and First Baptist Church in Weirton. He served as both a deacon and financial secretary for the First Baptist Church. He was a member of the Elks, Moose, VFW, American Legion, Weirton Steel 25-Year Club and Four Score Seniors. He loved reading, completing crossword puzzles, entertaining and traveling.
Arrangements are at the convenience of the family. A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made to a favorite Veteran's organization or a hospice donation to William and Helen Thomas Counseling Center, 5000 Dunn Road, Ft. Pierce, FL 34981.
Mr. Heaton's final arrangements are under the direction of Greco-Hertnick Funeral Home, 3219 Main Street, Weirton, WV.
Visitation:
Greco Hertnick Funeral Home
3219 Main Street
Weirton, WV
US 26062
Service:
Greco-Hertnick Funeral Home
3219 Main Street
Weirton, WV
US 26062
The Heaton family, you have my deepest sympathy on your loss of husband, father, I have many fond memories of Clayton from the Plaza Mens Shop. My prayers and thoughts are with you in your time of need. Nick
Maudelee: I was saddened to read of Mr. Heaton’s passing. My thoughts and prayers to you and your family. He always had a bright smile for us here at AAA. That smile will be missed.
Maude I was very sad to hear of Clayton’s passing. He was a wonderful, kind person. Thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time…..
My father, Sanford Lawrence, was Clayton’s cousin. I remember well Uncle Lloyd but have no memory of Aunt Annie Heaton. One vivid memory is of Clayton coming to visit us and have dinner after he returned home from WWII. I recall he and my Dad smoking pipes and discussing the war. Dad always spoke well of Clayton. My condolences to the family. Sandra Lawrence Ritchie
Clayton was such a gentleman!!! It was always a pleasure to see him. I’m sure he will be greatly missed by his family. He was one of the last survivors of the “greatest generation.” His accomplishments during WWII are remarkable, yet, he never boasted about them. May his memory ALWAYS be a blessing to his family!!!
When you are sorrowful look again in your heart, and you shall see that in truth you are weeping for that which has been your delight. ~Kahlil Gibran My heartfelt prayers to each of you on Pap’s passing. He was wonderful man that I will always be thankful for knowing. Much love, Monica
Dear Maude and family, Larry and I are very sad for your loss. We always enjoyed our time with Clayton and Maude when they visited Colorado. Clayton had such a beautiful spirit and love of people . His sense of humor and smile made everyone feel good. He will be missed.
Dear Maude and family, Larry and I are very sad for your loss. We always enjoyed our time with Clayton and Maude when they visited Colorado. Clayton had such a beautiful spirit and love of people . His sense of humor and smile made everyone feel good. He will be missed.
My condolences go out to the family
I’m terribly sorry for your loss. He was a great man and will truly be missed.
I’m terribly sorry for your loss. He was a great man and will truly be missed.