Samuel Richard Clayton

CLAYTON, Samuel Richard "Dick," died peacefully in his sleep at home in the early morning hours of October 21, 2014. Born in Roxboro, North Carolina, on April 1, 1927, Dick spent his entire business career buying and selling tobacco, retiring from Universal (Export) Leaf Tobacco Company as Vice President of Sales. Earlier he served in the United States Merchant Marines and in the United States Coast Guard. Dick was the second child of the late Elgie Payne and Hallie Walker Clayton. His wife, Stella Ann Taylor Clayton, his brother, Carlton "Gandy" Clayton and sister, Millie Clayton Johnson, all predeceased him. He is survived by nieces, Susan Clayton Cozard and Wanda Johnson Vaughn and nephews, Barry Johnson and Bobby Johnson, all of Roxboro, as well as numerous in-laws, and his 18-year-old Dachshund, Bud. Having never met a stranger, Dick loved playing golf with his many friends, primarily at the Salisbury Country Club, where he was known by many as the unofficial "Mayor of Salisbury." He was a man's man and loved his daily and weekly retirement routines, which all involved spending time with friends. He and his late wife, Stella Ann, spent many hours shag dancing in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, during their younger years. Funeral services entail his burial on Monday, October 27, at 1 p.m. at Lebanon Christian Church, 349 Cunningham Road, Semora, North Carolina. On Wednesday, October 29, a memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. at the Salisbury Presbyterian Church, 13621 West Salisbury Road, Midlothian, followed by a celebration of Dick's life at the Salisbury Country Club across the street from the church at 13620 Salisbury Road. Memorial contributions should be made to the Salisbury Presbyterian Church or to the charity of your choice. Arrangements under the direction of Woody Funeral Home-Hugunot, Richmond, VA.