Clayson Anderson

Clayson Reed Anderson, age 21, passed away on June 7, 2023 at Saint Francis Medical Center in Cape Girardeau, MO. He was born on July 4, 2001 to Mark David and Stephanie Ann Anderson. Clayson, affectionately referred to as “Gomez” by his father and many others, burst into life like the biggest and brightest firework ever launched. He carried that light with him throughout his life and shared it with everyone he encountered.

From the time he was little, Clayson had a love for all animals. Big or small, reptile or mammal; Clayson loved them all and spent countless hours outdoors with nature. He was an avid duck and deer hunter, bow fisherman, saved the lives of countless fawns, and was an occasional possum puncher. Clayson was a cattleman and was happiest on their family ranch. He was proud member of Ducks Unlimited.

Graduating from Bell City High School in 2020, Clayson was known as a good student and a friend to everyone . He was a multi-sport athlete participating in baseball, basketball, and track. He was a part of the 2017 baseball team that won the state championship.

Following in the family tradition, Clayson achieved his Eagle Scout rank at the age of fifteen. He enjoyed the time he spent camping and being exposed to all the different occupations of scouting. In the words of a family friend, “If I was stranded on a deserted island, I would want Clayson Anderson with me.”

He was pursuing his higher education at Mississippi State University in Starkville, Mississippi and had just completed his junior year majoring in Agriculture Science. In the fall of 2020, he pledged the Kappa Sigma Fraternity. He developed strong bonds serving alongside his brothers supporting their philanthropy efforts.

Clayson was a gifted musician with a talent for playing the guitar. He showcased his talent by performing at local venues, including a Mississippi State baseball game. His ability to play by ear was a God-given talent.

Clayson was a friend to all he encountered. He always made an effort to include everyone and make them feel special. He had a wide circle of life-long friends who will be forever changed by having him as a friend. He leaves behind his special girlfriend, Annsley Smith from Yazoo City, Mississippi.

As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, he learned from an early age the importance of serving others and having a heart for his Heavenly Father.

Survivors besides his parents include two brothers; Justin Mark Anderson (Samantha) and nephews Murray Bennett and Jackson Reed of Paducah, KY and Steven Garrett Anderson and nephew Thomas Sterling of Avondale, AZ. He was especially bonded with cousins Anya, Philip and Josiah Bachew; in addition to countless uncles, aunts and cousins.

Preceded in death by paternal grandparents Warren and Marjean Anderson and maternal grandparents H.R. and Nola Shaw.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, June 10, 2023 from 12:00 noon until time of funeral service at 3:00 p.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Sikeston, MO.

Interment will follow in the Oak Ridge Cemetery near Bloomfield, MO close to the Anderson family ranch.

Pallbearers will be Gavin Stoner, Hayden Alcorn, Tommy Gilmore, Charles Breaden, Grant Stoner, Lawson Alcorn, Joe Miles and Max Worth.

Honorary pallbearers will be Justin Anderson, Steven Anderson, Philip Bachew, Josiah Bachew, Todd Shaw, Dylan Gurney, Brent Bouge, Ruby Bouge and Nazario Lara.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to The Clayson Anderson Scholarship Fund at First Midwest Bank, P.O. Box 250, Sikeston, MO 63801 or to Ducks Unlimited.

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