88S30599 KSM-D
By: Hughes S.R. No. 25
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, The life of a distinguished jurist drew to a close
with the passing of the Honorable Joe D. Clayton of Tyler on
July 14, 2023, at the age of 84; and
WHEREAS, The son of Melvin and Clementine Clayton, Joe
Clayton was born in Bonham on November 21, 1938, and he grew up with
the companionship of three brothers, Bernard, Gene, and John; in
1956, he graduated from Tulia High School, and he went on to receive
his bachelor's degree from The University of Texas at Austin and his
juris doctor degree from the UT School of Law; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Clayton worked as a partner and senior partner
in various law firms in Tyler and Fredericksburg prior to embarking
on his esteemed career in the judiciary, over the course of which he
served as judge of the 241st District Court, the Smith County
Court-at-Law in Tyler, and the Bullard Municipal Court, as well as a
senior state district judge; furthermore, he held leadership roles
within a number of professional organizations, including the Texas
Center for the Judiciary, the State Bar of Texas, and the Texas Bar
Foundation; and
WHEREAS, Active in his community, Judge Clayton gave
generously of his time and talents to numerous civic groups, such as
the Bowie Chamber of Commerce, the East Texas Estate Planning
Council, and the Tyler-Rose City Kiwanis Club; in his leisure
hours, he enjoyed hunting and fishing; and
WHEREAS, Above all else, Judge Clayton was devoted to his
loved ones; he shared a rewarding marriage with his wife, Jan, that
spanned five and a half decades until her passing in 2019, and he
took great pride in their three children, Joe, James, and
Catherine; with the passing years, he had the pleasure of welcoming
into his treasured family three granddaughters, Ashley, Caroline,
and Clementene; in all his endeavors, Judge Clayton was sustained
by his strong faith, and he was a valued member of First
Presbyterian Church in Tyler; and
WHEREAS, Joe Clayton earned the respect and admiration of all
who knew him, and he leaves behind a record of service that his
family and friends can remember with pride; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate of the 88th Texas Legislature, 3rd
Called Session, hereby pay tribute to the memory of Judge
Joe D. Clayton and extend sincere condolences to all who mourn his
passing; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared for his family and that when the Texas Senate adjourns this
day, it do so in memory of Joe Clayton.