Barry Kenneth Clayton, 79, of Madisonville, Kentucky, passed away on Saturday, October 24, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, veteran, and friend, Barry will be remembered for his hardworking spirit, quick wit, and love for those closest to him.

Born on April 17, 1947, Barry was the son of the late Omer T. "Ned" Clayton and Bonnie Bowles Clayton. He was also preceded in death by his brothers, Johnny L. Clayton, Omer D. Clayton, and William "Bill" Clayton, and his sisters, Betty Jones, Dorothy Morris, and Margie Duff.

Barry proudly served his country in the United States Army, beginning his military service in 1967 and was stationed in Germany. Following his military service, Barry built a successful career in the asphalt industry. He dedicated thirty-eight years of service to Dixie Pavers and Rogers Group before retiring in 2005. Known for his strong work ethic and dependability, he earned the respect of coworkers and friends throughout his career.

Outside of work and in retirement, Barry enjoyed watching sports and treasured time with family. He loved family vacations, traveling to AAU tournaments, and attending Delta State University basketball games. A lifelong University of Kentucky and St. Louis Cardinals fan, he was also an avid NASCAR enthusiast whose favorite driver was Darrell Waltrip. Race days, UK games, and family gatherings brought him great joy, as did a good game of pool, spades, or rook. He was also an avid listener of Kentucky Sports Radio, and no morning was complete until he tuned in to Matt and the crew.

More than anything else, Barry cherished his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who took extraordinary pride in the accomplishments and happiness of those he loved. He was known for his sharp sense of humor and was always ready with a quick-witted one-liner that could bring a smile to anyone's face. Barry was of the Baptist faith.

He is survived by his loving wife of fifty-nine years, Sandra Trice Clayton; daughter, Traci (Mark) Eddings of Madisonville; son, Barrett (Amy) Clayton of Naples, Florida; sisters, Mildred Strader of Madisonville and Jeanette Regan of St. Petersburg, Florida; his beloved grandchildren, Tori (Jalyn) Combs and Clayton Eddings of Madisonville, Barrett Eddings of Paris, Tennessee, Bryce Clayton, Spencer Clayton and Maddox Clayton of Naples, Florida. In addition, he leaves behind several cherished great-grandchildren; Chandler, Reese and Sutton Combs of Madisonville and Cruz Eddings of Paris, Tennessee; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will miss him.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Harris Funeral Home at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, October 30, 2026, in the chapel of Harris Funeral Home with his son-in-law, Pastor Mark Eddings officiating. Burial to follow at Odd Fellows Cemetery in Madisonville. Military Honors will be conducted by the United States Army and the Hopkins County Honor Guard.

Visitation will be from 12 p.m. until the funeral hour on Friday at the funeral home.

Pallbearers are Bryce Clayton, Spencer Clayton, Maddox Clayton, Barrett Eddings, Clayton Eddings, and Jalyn Combs.

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.harrisfuneralinc.com