Maureen Michele Clayton

Maureen Michele “Susi” Clayton, born January 28, 1948, passed away peacefully on November 4, 2022, at her home in Tempe, Arizona. Maureen was born in Aurora, CO, the daughter of Billy and Dorene Fritts. Their next Army posting was Ft Bragg, NC, where son Steven was born. Dorene and the children resided near Fritts relatives in Muskogee, OK, while Major Fritts served in the Korean War. Following her husband’s wartime death, Dorene moved the family to Phoenix, AZ. There, she met and married Tom Clayton Jr, who adopted both children. They relocated to Litchfield Park, AZ when Maureen was in 2nd grade. As a cattleman, Tom Clayton operated a feedlot at Dome Valley, near Wellton, AZ, and owned a ranch in Hillside, AZ. Maureen preferred the Hillside ranch visits! That background gave her a deep appreciation for ranching and agriculture, which continued throughout her life. She found lasting friends during her school years in Litchfield Park and at Arizona State University. Maureen earned both a Secondary Education degree and a Master’s in Education from ASU. With a passionate interest in literary arts, she taught English and Reading at Saguaro High School in Scottsdale. She retired after 16 years of teaching, bringing well- earned calmer days. For family and friends, she celebrated each of our special days with a card or a phone call. Maureen was preceded in death by Billy Fritts, Tom and Dorene Clayton, and her younger brother Steven. Maureen is survived by her brother Mardy (Thela) Clayton, sister Anita Reeder McCoy, and by many cousins in Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, Oklahoma, and Missouri. She always cherished her lifelong school friendships. Tempe neighbors and an avid group of dog lovers added joy to her later years.

Burial will be private at Green Acres Cemetery in Scottsdale, AZ.

Charitable contributions in Maureen’s name may be sent to: Dogs for Better Lives, 10175 Wheeler Road, Central Point, OR 97502. Also online: [email protected]

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.LakeshoreMort.com for the Clayton family.