Obituary of Willie Lee Clayton

Willie Lee "Bill" Clayton, 92, of Bedford, VA, beloved husband, father, and grandfather passed away in the arms of his devoted wife, Tammy, into the arms of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on May 11, 2025. Born on June 28, 1932 in Larue County, Kentucky, he was the youngest child of Jesse and Ella Clayton.

Bill, as he was affectionately known, was a shining light in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. He was quick-witted, out-going, and loved to make people laugh through the many humorous stories he told. His passing has left a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and many more whose lives were touched by him.

Bill spent some of his childhood years in Larue County and some in Louisville, KY. His dad owned a garage where Bill learned at a young age how to work on cars and through that developed a strong work ethic. When Bill began playing the guitar as a teenager, his love for music quickly intensified and influenced his life from then on. He served in the US Army during the Korean War and later completed technical training in radio and television.

After accepting Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior on January 2, 1977, Bill’s life completely changed, and his interest in music shifted from country music to southern gospel and worship music, which he played and sang with Tammy and their children for the rest of his life. A talented guitarist and singer, Bill instilled in his
children the love for music, and his musical legacy continues through his children and grandchildren. Bill’s life is a testament to the transforming power of God’s love and grace.

Bill dearly loved his family. He is survived by Tammy, his loving wife of nearly 43 years, and his children: Kathie (Mark) Patterson, Joni (John) Tencza, Kim (Ronnie) Anderson, Byron (Lisa) Clayton, Rachel (Chad) Parker, Jacob (Rachel) Clayton, 20 grandchildren, and 16 great-grandchildren.

Bill is preceded in death by his father Jesse Clayton, mother Ella Coy Clayton, son Troy, his first wife Clara, his second wife Bessie, stepsons Gary and Mark, brothers J. O. (Margie) Clayton, Jesse (Lura) Clayton, Jr., and sister Catherine (Tom) Bright. 

The family will receive friends beginning at 11 AM on Monday, May 19, 2025 at Calvary Chapel Smith Mountain Lake, 15267 Smith Mountain Lake Parkway, Huddleston, VA and a funeral service will follow at 12 noon.  Interment will be in the Radford Baptist Church Cemetery, 1293 Radford Church Rd. Moneta, VA immediately following the service.

Arrangements are being handled by Updike Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Bedford.