SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 25

In Memory

of

Joe D. Clayton

WHEREAS, The life of a distinguished jurist drew to a close with the passing of the Honorable Joe D. Clayton of Tyler on July 14, 2023, at the age of 84; and

WHEREAS, The son of Melvin and Clementine Clayton, Joe Clayton was born in Bonham on November 21, 1938, and he grew up with the companionship of three brothers, Bernard, Gene, and John; in 1956, he graduated from Tulia High School, and he went on to receive his bachelor's degree from The University of Texas at Austin and his juris doctor degree from the UT School of Law; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Clayton worked as a partner and senior partner in various law firms in Tyler and Fredericksburg prior to embarking on his esteemed career in the judiciary, over the course of which he served as judge of the 241st District Court, the Smith County Court-at-Law in Tyler, and the Bullard Municipal Court, as well as a senior state district judge; furthermore, he held leadership roles within a number of professional organizations, including the Texas Center for the Judiciary, the State Bar of Texas, and the Texas Bar Foundation; and

WHEREAS, Active in his community, Judge Clayton gave generously of his time and talents to numerous civic groups, such as the Bowie Chamber of Commerce, the East Texas Estate Planning Council, and the Tyler-Rose City Kiwanis Club; in his leisure hours, he enjoyed hunting and fishing; and

WHEREAS, Above all else, Judge Clayton was devoted to his loved ones; he shared a rewarding marriage with his wife, Jan, that spanned five and a half decades until her passing in 2019, and he took great pride in their three children, Joe, James, and Catherine; with the passing years, he had the pleasure of welcoming into his treasured family three granddaughters, Ashley, Caroline, and Clementene; in all his endeavors, Judge Clayton was sustained by his strong faith, and he was a valued member of First Presbyterian Church in Tyler; and

WHEREAS, Joe Clayton earned the respect and admiration of all who knew him, and he leaves behind a record of service that his family and friends can remember with pride; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 88th Legislature, 3rd Called Session, hereby pay tribute to the memory of Judge Joe D. Clayton and extend sincere condolences to all who mourn his passing; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That an official copy of this Resolution be prepared for his family and that when the Texas Senate adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Joe Clayton.

Hughes

________________________________

President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on October 19, 2023, by a rising vote.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate