Clayton Henry Knodel

It is with great sorrow that we share the passing of Clayton Knodel on November 25, 2025. He was born on March 11, 1974, and was the fourth and last child of Fred and Claudette Knodel. He is preceded in death by his parents, and he is survived by his brother, Freddy Knodel and his wife Debi; his sister, Karen Martin and her husband, Andy; his sister, Janet Pennewell and her husband, Dean; and many nieces and nephews.

In life, Clayton was a hard worker. He began his career at ARC Gateway on a crew that managed commercial landscaping. He then worked at Delchamps and finally at Dana Corporation. He enjoyed many leisure activities, including swimming, bowling, and golfing. He also loved music and dancing. He was actively involved in the Special Olympics, the 409 Scout Troop, and the Pensacola Civitan Club for several years. He grew up attending Gonzalez Baptist Church, then Olive Baptist Church, and finally Hillcrest Baptist Church. He spent his final years as a resident of Arcadia Health and Rehabilitation, where he participated in as many activities as his health would allow. These included Bingo, playing cards, music, parties, and festivals. He also participated in excursions such as going to restaurants and the Pensacola Interstate Fair. He enjoyed going out with family and attending family functions such as birthday and holiday parties.

Clayton touched the lives of everyone he encountered. He was a great brother and friend. He had a great sense of humor, and his mood was always upbeat. He persevered through many challenges with his health and always came back with a smile. He never asked for anything and always appreciated everything. He was an inspiration. He has left a hole in this world that cannot be filled. He will be missed, always.

A visitation will be held on December 9, 2025, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm at Eastern Gate Memorial Funeral Home, located at 1985 West Nine Mile Road, Pensacola, FL 32534.

The funeral service will follow at the same venue beginning at 2:00 pm.

Interment will take place at Eastern Gate Memorial Gardens immediately following the funeral service.