Judith "Judy" Ann Clayton, 76, of Clark, passed away on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at Boone Hospital Center.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at Arnold Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Perche Cemetery.

Visitation will be held at 9:00 A.M. until time of services on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at the funeral home.

Judy was born on June 24, 1948 in Mexico, the daughter of Melvin and Lorraine (Veltrop) Kempker.  On February 4, 1967 she married Jim Clayton in Mexico.  Judy was a 1966 graduate of Mexico High School.

Judy, a devoted daycare provider, spent her career nurturing and caring for young children, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of those she helped shape. Outside of her work, she had a passion for sewing and crafts, creating beautiful pieces with her hands. Above all, Judy treasured her family, finding joy in the simple moments shared with her loved ones. Her kindness, creativity, and unwavering dedication to those she cared for will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Survivors include her husband of 57 years, Jim Clayton of Clark; two sisters, Janet Dalton of Kingdom City and Joan (Art) Fuemmeler of Monroe City; 15 nieces and nephews, Darell Kempker of Independence, Donna Kempker of Independence, Chad Fuemmeler of Mexico; Brad Fuemmeler of Monroe City, Susan Cioara of Arizona, Steve Turner of Mexico, Troy Clayton of Columbia, Gina Clayton of Nashville, Jack Clayton, Jr. of Mexico, Jake Clayton of Nashville, Wendy Clayton-Stogdale of Florida, Chris Clayton of Columbia, Orion Clayton of Mexico, Allison Clayton of Columbia and Nathan Clayton of Columbia.

Judy was preceded in death by her parents, Melvin and Lorraine Kempker and one brother, Jerry Kempker.

The family requests memorial donations be made to an organization of their choice. Memorials may be sent in care of Arnold Funeral Home, 425 S. Jefferson, Mexico, MO 65265.

Online condolences may be left at www.arnoldfh.com