Patricia A. Claytor

Cherished Daughter, Sister, Wife, Mother, Grandmother, Aunt and Friend

July 25, 1940 – October 23, 2016

A beautiful soul inside and out and until her very last breath of her life on this earth, passed away peacefully and in the comfort of her home, surrounded by her family.

Pat was a woman that you would have been blessed to have crossed paths with in life. She had a selfless and joyful servant’s heart that always served others before giving any consideration to herself. She was cheerful, warm, genuine and funny. In times of need, she was dependable with a heart of gold. After the initial hello, Pat would surely ask “Is there anything I can do for you today?” She was never one to sit idle, even for a moment.

The daughter of John “Jack” and Madeline Carter, Pat, along with her younger brother Jim, enjoyed a happy and loving childhood in Rockton, IL, Following graduation from Hononegah High School (Class of ’58) she was employed by the Sundstrand Corporation. Introduced by mutual friends, Pat fell in love with Charles, who was so smitten with her that he asked for her hand in marriage soon after their second date! They were married May 13, 1966 and recently celebrated 50 Years together. They were truly best friends and soul mates. Pat and Charles were fortunate to enjoy many life’s adventures. Whether they were camping, short getaways or dream vacations, happy memories remain.

Pat’s greatest joy and first priority was always her family. Pat dearly loved and doted on her daughters Becky & Christy in every way. Always to be counted on as a “room mother”, school chaperone, Brownie Mom, PTO Fundraiser, dance/cheerleading bake sales, holiday parties, she relished every minute. Later in life, she was blessed with a Grandson, Mitchell, who was the apple of her eye. She was a proud “Nana” and her camera and a plate of cookies or brownies were never far. She never missed a school event, game, musical performance or an opportunity for a photo shoot at Olan Mills. She was doubly blessed in 2010 by the birth of her Great Grandson, Noah David, and could not have been a prouder Great-Grandmother.

Pat had a special place in her heart for all children and lovingly cared for foster children. Through the years she also provided daycare for children whom she cherished as her very own.

Pat was the consummate hostess. Whether in her home for dinner or impromptu visit, no invitation was ever required! She took your coat, welcomed you with a big hug and a smile, then somehow magically appeared with a spread of the most delicious homemade treats.

A special joy for Pat was always the Christmas Holidays. The day after Thanksgiving would find Pat armed with her extensive gift list and shopping the holiday sales. Soon after, the house would be bustling and brimming with decorations, music, beautifully wrapped gifts around the Christmas Tree and the wonderful aromas of her family’s favorite baked cookies and treats. In fact, her life embodied the Christmas Spirit and the miracle of Christ’s birth.

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God”

Matthew 5:8

Pat’s legacy lives through her loving husband Charles who resides in Rockton. Her two children: Becky (Ken) Kutska of Bradenton FL/Loves Park IL and Christy (Darin) Dobzynski, Rockford IL, grandson Mitchell Leatherby (Libby Goral) and great-grandson Noah David of Machesney Park, IL, brother Jim (Sharon) Carter, Rockton, IL. Many cherished family members, including, niece Tana (David) Lee, nephews Ryan (Andrea) Carter, Bill Bartok (Tina) and great nieces and nephews, Justin, Jacob, Joshua, Nick and Mya. Sister-in-laws Colleen Hood and Deloris Bartok of Mt. Olive, IL.

Pat’s heavenly body is joined in heaven by her parents Jack and Madeline Carter along with her mother-in-law Amelia Claytor, sister-in-laws Pat Carter Betty Wegman, brother-in-laws George and Fritz Claytor, Aunt Betty Kimmel, and many beloved family members.

Our family thanks our family, friends, and neighbors for your visits, prayers, meals, and most of all for your love and concern.

A special thank you to Northern IL Hospice Caregivers for their compassionate and respectful care. Memorials may be given to Northern IL Hospice.

A celebration of Pat’s life will be held on Friday, October 28, 2016 at Sunset Funeral Home. Visitation at 9:00 am and service at 10:00.