Clayton A. Neilson, a loving husband to Betty Joan, and a beloved father of five children, passed away on June 30th, at the age of 94, after complications from breaking his hip. He was able to spend his last two weeks at home surrounded by family.

Clayton grew up on a large farm in the old Washington Fields. From the balcony of his home of the last 21 years, he was able to look out over his beloved fields, now covered by homes, to the amazing vistas beyond. He especially enjoyed watching the construction of the Red Cliffs temple in the distance. The St. George temple held a special place in his heart. He was baptized in that temple at the age of 8 and served as an ordinance worker for many years.

Clayton was a farm boy. The youngest of eleven children. He was an uncle before he was even born. For many years, his family lived on an 80 acre farm, where they raise farm animals and harvested a large variety of fruits, vegetables and nuts. It allowed his parents to keep their large family fed during the great depression. Clayton shared many stories of working with horse-drawn wagons (it was rare to own a car), caring for the farm and learning the value of hard work. Well into his 90’s, his memory for names, places and events from his early childhood and beyond was stunning. He even remembered the names of the bridesmaids at his wedding.

He developed a life long love of growing fruits and vegetables. He was especially fond of beautiful flowers, and had a great talent for both. If he had a favorite hobby, this would be it. He also loved riding motorcycles with his kids and with his nephew and close friend, Leon Tobler.

Clayton was a lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served faithfully in many callings and assignments throughout his life. He touched many lives for the better through his service. As a stake missionary, he and his family helped bring 17 new converts into the church. Later on, he and Betty Jo were called to a special mission involving name extractions. From a computer at home and working in the basement of the St. George Tabernacle, they helped locate and index over a thousand names. Clayton knew his family was greatly blessed by the example he set serving the Lord. Family was everything to Clayton. He considered their children as their crowning achievement. Without being overbearing, he was a patient listener and always ready with heartfelt and Christlike loving council.

Betty Jo was his high school sweetheart. They married in the St. George temple on February 28, 1953. The young family lived in St. George, where he worked delivering bread. After moving to Las Vegas, Clayton partnered with his brother LaGrand, running gas stations and eventually operated the well known Vegas Arco Truck Stop for 17 years. Eventually the brothers returned to St. George, where they continued their partnership by building more than 24 rental units. They both even drove a school bus for a few years. He really enjoyed working side by side with his brother. Clayton and Betty Jo were married for 67 years. He missed her terribly in the nearly six years since her passing.

He is survived by his five children, Cindy (Marv) Reeder, Brad (Emily) Neilson, Kathy (Clark) Bird, Brenda (Thomas) Weixler and Chris (Rhonda) Neilson. His posterity currently numbers: 25 grandchildren, 43 great-grandchildren and 9 great-great-grandchildren. His family, of which he was so proud, continues to grow and benefit greatly from his examples of hard work, faith and charity.

A viewing will be held on Saturday, July 11th, from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. with the funeral service starting at 11:00 a.m. both held at the LDS chapel located at 249 North Mall Drive, St. George, Utah. Interment will follow the service at the St. George City Cemetery.

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Arrangements are made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 South Bluff Street, St. George, Utah. 435-673-2454.

Family and friends are invited to share their condolences and sign Clayton’s online guestbook at www.SpilsburyMortuary.com