John M. Clayton Jr., 81, of Hockessin, DE, passed away peacefully after a short illness on February 23, 2023.

John was born in West Grove, PA, son of the Marian (Myers) and John M. Clayton Sr. A 1959 graduate of Avon Grove High School, he earned a bachelor's degree in music education from West Chester University and a master's degree in library science from Drexel University. In 1968, John married Norma Towne and they settled in Newark, DE. After beginning his career in high school education, he joined the University of Delaware, where he worked until his retirement in 2003.

John was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and dear friend to many. In his free time, John enjoyed listening and playing music, studying genealogy and history, traveling with Norma, and spending summers in Bridgton, Maine. John and Norma were continually active at their church, First and Central Presbyterian Church in Wilmington (where they met), and at Cokesbury Village where they lived for the past 12 years.

John had an interest in history and a knack for bringing historical events and stories to life. In 1969, he became the first professional archivist at the University of Delaware, where he developed a records management program that became a national model. He later moved into university development, where he had many opportunities to share university memories and stories of UD with students, alumni and donors.

John's love of music and art connected him to many friends, family and places throughout his life. He enjoyed singing and accompanying in both sacred and secular settings, most recently participating in the chorus at both Cokesbury Village and the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute. He also brought music to many residents at Cokesbury through playing the piano and organizing hymn sings in the healthcare wing and assisting with music for chapel services.

In addition to his parents, John was predeceased by his sister, Margaret Clayton. He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Norma Towne Clayton; their devoted daughter, Signe Bell (Jason); granddaughters Adeline and Amelia Bell; and numerous close family friends whom he loved.

A memorial service will be held April 1 at 11 a.m. in the auditorium at Cokesbury Village, 726 Loveville Road, Hockessin, DE 19707.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in John's name to the Rufus Porter Museum of Art and Ingenuity, P.O. Box 544, Bridgton, ME 04009.

To read a detailed article about John's career at the University of Delaware, please visit https://www.udel.edu/udaily/2023/march/in-memoriam-john-clayton/