Life Reflections

Johnnie Clayton made his transition on February 20, 2021 at the age of 89. He was born in Bay Spring, MS. to the late John and Ethel Hosey-Clayton.

Johnnie was a pillar to his Cleveland community and to his home church in Cleveland, Ohio, Starlight Baptist Church, Cleveland, OH. serving and praising the Lord under the leadership of the Late Rev. Edward Dwayne Smalls. Johnnie was very enthusiastic about singing as he enjoyed singing in the choir and was a member of the Male and Mass Gospel Chorus.  Also, attending Sunday School to learn more about the Lord.

Johnnie worked for Forest City Foundry Cleveland, OH for over 25 years as a forklift driver and he was a self-employed interior painter.

Johnnie enjoyed spending time with his family, playing cards, watching baseball, washing and waxing his car. In his growing up years, he enjoyed hunting coons and squirrels. Johnnie would not hesitate to let anyone know how proud he was of his four children with chest held high and a great big grin – then he would say three boys and one daughter. Johnnie was very well known with his family and community for building the best BBQ grills as well as preparing the BBQ for whatever the occasion. Everyone waited for Johnnie to cook the Ribs!! He will truly be missed by everyone he encountered.

Johnnie moved to Erie, PA 15 years ago with his brother Joe and spent many good times with his brother and family in Erie. In Erie he joined the Second Baptist Church.  As times went on and his health began to fail he was well taken care of by his nieces (Marva, Terri, Stephanie, and Jessica).

Johnnie was preceded in death by his parents; siblings Deacon Joseph Clayton, Pete Clayton and Willie Clayton; sisters; Alma Clayton, Mattie Clayton, Joe Ellen Coles and Gwendolyn Coles; special Uncle Howard Hosey.

Johnnie leaves to cherish his memory his daughter; Lynda McCullum of Romeoville, IL, sons; Ronald Clayton (Mimi), Ronzell Clayton Sr. (Sherri) and Randell Clayton all of Cleveland, OH; sisters; Ella Mae Coles, Geneva Clayton and Larcenie Clayton; his brother Charles Clayton; 11 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.