Harold Jerome Clayton

Harold Jerome Clayton, 93, of Beaumont, departed this life on Friday, November 10, 2017, at Pelican Bay Assisted Living, Beaumont. He was born on April 15, 1924, in Plant City, Florida, to Bernice Hardin Clayton and Kyler Clayton, and had been a longtime resident of the area. Harold grew up during the Great Depression where every family member pitched in. He related how at 6 years old, he worked in a hot house harvesting tomatoes. In school he was a good student but excelled in athletics and was an All-State basketball player.

Following graduation, he joined the United States Marine Corps and before departing for the Pacific, he married Iris Elaine Oxford. In the Philippines he served under Joe Fosse, a Medal of Honor recipient and Marine Corps Fighter Ace. Returning from the war, he took the first job available selling shoes. He and Iris moved around the South, settling in Beaumont where he managed Paul Shoe Store. Later through self-study, he became a real estate broker and president of the Beaumont Board of Realtors.

Harold is survived by his children, Daniel D. Clayton and his wife, Dianna, of Beaumont; Connie C. Randolph, of The Woodlands; and Gary R. Clayton, M.D. and his wife, Becky, of Lumberton.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Iris Elaine Oxford Clayton.

Harold and Iris taught their children to work hard, to get as much education as possible, and to be your own boss.

Harold often said, “If you could fry cook or sell women’s shoes, you would never starve.”

The family wishes to thank Mr. James Moore, and the entire staff of Pelican Bay; and Mr. Clayton’s personal caregiver, Margaret Keyes.

A gathering of Mr. Clayton’s family and friends will be from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., Monday, November 13, 2017, at Broussard’s, 2000 McFaddin Avenue, Beaumont. His graveside service will be 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, November 14, 2017, at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, 4955 Pine Street, Beaumont, with Military Honors by United States Marine Corps and Southeast Texas Veterans Group.