Leighton Coleman Clemons

Leighton Clemons, age 87, passed peacefully into the presence of the Lord, surrounded by family, on March 9, 2026. As a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Leighton lived a life defined by faith, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the people he loved.

Leighton was born July 29, 1938, in Montevallo, Alabama, right in the “Heart” of the “Heart of Dixie.” He was the youngest and only boy in a lively household with five older sisters. Growing up in Alabama during wartime rationing was not easy, but those early years shaped the resilience and determination that would define Leighton’s life.

After briefly working for the railroad, Leighton made a life-changing decision to join the United States Navy. The Navy proved to be the perfect fit. He excelled in boot camp, earning the distinction of Company Honor Man, then attended advanced training in electrical work, and finally went on to attend submarine school. He served during the Vietnam War and the Cuban Missile Crisis aboard submarines Grenadier and Atule.

After Leighton completed his time in the Navy, he began to build a life: a car, a truck, a mobile home—and most importantly, Kay. Leighton married Kay on February 14, 1964. Leighton often said that Kay was a gift from God. Their family was completed with their children, Mike, Mark, and Susan.

Leighton was a proud Union electrician for over 50 years. After retiring, he devoted much of his time to Baptist Builders, voluntarily wiring 16 churches across Missouri.

Following Hurricane Katrina in 2005, Leighton and Kay became actively involved in disaster relief efforts. Leighton served as an instructor and leader with Missouri Baptist Disaster Relief, and together they traveled across the country responding to communities in need. Over the years, they assisted with more than 15 disaster recovery efforts, serving anywhere from a week to as long as 18 months. Through their work, they helped rebuild homes, restore hope, and bring practical help to people during some of the most difficult moments of their lives.

Leighton and Kay built a life centered on faith, family, and serving the Lord together. Over the years, their family grew with marriages, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, each one a source of deep joy and pride. This year, they celebrated 62 years of marriage—a testament to a lifetime of love and commitment.

Leighton is survived by his wife, Kay (Nett) Clemons; his children Mike (Leasa) Clemons, Mark (Donna) Clemons, and Susan (Robb) Behymer; his grandchildren Kaytlynn (Luis) Magana, Christian (Zibby) Clemons, Kayleigh (James) Swan, and Ally Behymer; and his great-grandchildren David Magana and Linlee Clemons. He is also survived by his sister, Betty Jo Ward. He is also survived by several nephews and nieces.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leon and Cora Clemons; his brother; his sisters, Alice Baxter, Doris Davis, Ila Fay Hildreth, and Wilma Guthrie; and his daughter, Teresa Clemons.

Leighton’s life was one of courage, conviction, and sacrificial love. He leaves behind a legacy of faith and family that will endure for generations to come.