Dr Clayton’s birthday popped up today on my Facebook and I knew I hadn’t heard from him in a long time. I was sad to find this when I searched his name on the internet. Dr Clayton was instrumental in helping me achieve my doctorate of pharmacy degree. When I was accepted into pharmacy school, he even offered to pay my $350 deposit if I wasn’t able. He believed in me and encouraged me to reach for my dreams. When I graduated, he was there to watch me walk across the stage in Columbia and sat right there with my family. He was one of a kind. God bless you Dr Clayton. (Even though you said I could call you Fred after I got hooded) You truly were a kind soul.

Dr Clayton was quite instrumental in helping me learn how to be a college student. He worked very hard in and out of the classroom instructing those of us who had difficulty with Chemistry.  He never gave up on us.  Along with Dr George Crowe (Spanish), they both took great interest in spiritual things, as well.  Our retreats with Intervarsity Christian Fellowship and these two wonderful faculty advisors will forever stay in my heart.  Well done, Dr Clayton.

I arrived at FMC in the summer of 1973. Fred was already a fixture in the department and aided me greatly in getting started in my career. He was indeed a special person. He made connections all over and told great stories. He knew his chemistry and provided lots of useful procedures and background. He was not a person to be forgotten. So much of my history was intertwined with his. I also enjoyed knowing his wife Rose and daughter Jill.

Very sad to hear today about the passing of Dr. Clayton. To say that he impacted many students lives would be an understatement. His energy, compassion and love of the subject came through every single day.

Fred made valuable contributions to Francis Marion University, especially its outstanding Chemistry Department, from its founding in 1970 throughout his career. A fine scientist and colleague.

I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Dr. Clayton. I worked with Dr. Clayton in the early 90’s, and he was so kind. Prayers for his family

Today, Jan. 2, 2023, a very sad message was received about the dead of Dr. Fred Clayton.. Fred and I first met at an ACS meeting in New Orleans, December, 1970. We worked together from the fall of 1071 until my retirement in 1997. He was a great member of the chemistry faculty but more important to me, we were great friends. I know Rose and his daughter miss him.

Prayers to the family.  Fred was a big personality and has been missed at FMU since his retirement.  He never met a stranger.  I was always surprised that he didn't like sweets but touched that he would get a cookie at lunch on campus to take to Rose.  He was chair when I was hired at FMU.  He and Rose made me feel welcome in Florence.

OBITUARY

Fred Clayton, Jr

December 22, 1940 – December 26, 2022

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