Clay Binyon

We are sad to announce the passing of Bernard Clayton “Clay” Binyon of Fort Smith on March 29, 2024. Clay was born on April 10, 1958, in Clarksville, Arkansas to Harold Binyon and Jane Linton Binyon. Clay graduated from Southside High School then went to the University of Arkansas where he received both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Economics.

He was a loyal employee of Shipley Baking Company for almost 20 years. Upon the closing of the bakery, Clay tried several jobs, eventually finding his second career as a vendor at local gun shows. He was a proud member of Old Fort Gun Club and the National Rifle Association. He loved the outdoors in all its forms: camping, hiking, canoeing and was always a fan of the “scenic route.” A beloved husband, father and grandfather, Clay found his true calling as “Papa.” He loved spoiling his grandchildren and counted the days between visits.

Clay was preceded in death by his parents Harold and Jane Binyon and a daughter, Christina Rose Binyon. He is survived by Diane Binyon, his wife of 42 years—whom he cherished greatly; three daughters Carrie Binyon, Tamara (Peter) Lantz and Hannah (Kyle) Zinno; four grandchildren Harper Lantz, Genevieve, Samuel and Gabriel Zinno.

Visitation will be Thursday, April 4 from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Edwards Funeral Home.

Funeral Mass will be Friday, April 5 at 10:00 am at Immaculate Conception Church with a Rosary to precede it at 9:30 am. Interment will be at Calvary Cemetery following the Mass.

Pallbearers will be Lance Binyon, Race Burns, Peter Lantz, Kyle Zinno, Danny Dixon, David Hyden, Mark Koenigseder, and Mike Neal.

Honorary pallbearers will be David Burns, John Furness, and Kurt Oswald.

Clay was a passionate supporter of the Pro-Life movement. To honor his love for life at its most vulnerable, contributions may be made to the Pro-Life organization of the donor’s choice.