Kathlyne "Kay" Clanton's Obituary
Kathlyne (Kay) Huntley Clanton passed away peacefully at Mt. Zion Health and Rehab Center Sunday morning, March 10, 2024. She was born in Rock Island Illinois to Ruth E. (Pierce) Huntley and Edwin L. Huntley on August 25, 1936. The family moved to Decatur where she attended Dennis, Johns Hill and Stephen Decatur schools. She married Ronald D. Clanton in 1954 at First United Methodist Church, Decatur and traveled with him during his service with the USAF. They traveled to many Air Force stations throughout the country during his service, including a time in Hawaii.
Kay was involved in many activities as she supported her husband and family. She was a Girl Scout leader, swimming instructor and camp song leader. Upon Ron’s retirement, the family returned to Decatur where she continued her active life. She bowled, golfed, painted, and sang with the PTA and church choirs. Kay worked in several local retail stores and was the parts runner for Fleener and Roberts for many years.
She continued traveling when Ron retired from the USPS, enjoying visits with family and friends. She especially enjoyed taking her grandsons to Branson and Washington, DC.
After her husband died, she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and slowly declined. She continued to sing by entertaining the residents with her rendition of “God Bless America” until she could no longer speak.
Kay is survived by her sister, Ruthmary Kirby Kiler, daughters Cindy (Jim) Smith, Niantic; Lesa (Clanton) Crane, Decatur; sons Brian (Marla Opperman) Clanton, Chesnut, IL, and Rodney (Dawn Smith) Clanton, Maryland Heights, MO. Four grandsons, Ashley (Abby Kelly) Smith; Griffin (Brandy Sparks) Smith, Nelson (Jess Kranz) Crane and Nathan Crane and four great granddaughters, Maddie, Kayla, Eileen and Remy as well as many nieces and nephews.
The family would like to thank Desire and Eileen with ELARA Caring for their long-term hospice care and the Mt. Zion Health and Rehab Center for the daily love and care provided. Services will be held on Friday, March 15, 2024, at 11:00 AM at First United methodist Church in Decatur, IL.
In lieu of flowers, the family would like donations made to First United Methodist Church.
Condolences and memories of Kay may be shared at www.moranandgoebel.com.
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