Betty Clayton

Betty Janeice Clayton, 66, of Jonesboro, passed from this life on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at St. Bernards Medical Center. She was born on July 6, 1958, in Grand Junction, Tennessee, to the late William and Valcia Gates.

Betty was a true jack-of-all-trades, but her heart was always in caring for others. She spent most of her career as a nurse, dedicating herself to the well-being of those around her. In recent years, she worked for Central Baptist Church, where she found joy in serving her community.

Family was the center of Betty’s world—her loved ones always came first. She had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and enjoyed hiking with her husband, marveling at God’s beauty. A passionate gardener with a remarkable green thumb, she took great pride in her roses and daylilies.

Betty is preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Johnny Gates; and her sisters Blanche Crum.

She survived by her devoted husband, Tracy Clayton of Jonesboro; her brother, Raymond Gates (Shirley) of Smyrna, Tennessee; Sister, Helen Mynatt. Her sons, Jamie Henderson (Amber) of Rogers Springs, Tennessee, and Tony Thompson of Rogers Springs, Tennessee; her daughter, April Dawn Thompson of Ramer, Tennessee; Step-Children, Jeramy Clayton (Ashley) of Jonesboro, Arkansas,  Brandy Shields of Jonesboro, Arkansas, Jay “Jerry Lee” Clayton (Jennifer) of Mechanicsville, Virginia, Corrie Riggs (Kris) of Imperial, Missouri  Jesse Clayton (Ashlyn) of Jonesboro, Arkansas; and her cherished grandchildren, Matthew Thompson, Ethan Thompson, Kaleb Henderson, Kaylee “Tootie” Henderson, Joy Shields, Katie Shields, Bella Shields, Noah Clayton, Nash Clayton, Elizabeth Clayton, Willow Riggs, Lily Riggs and two great granddaughters, Lexi and Harmony. As well as many aunts, uncles, nieces nephews and countless friends.

Visitation will be held from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. on Monday, February 3, 2025, at Emerson Funeral Home. A funeral service will follow at 2:00 p.m., with Jay Jacobs officiating. Betty will be laid to rest at Nettleton Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Jeramy Clayton, Jay “Jerry Lee” Clayton, Jesse Clayton, Ethan Thompson, Matthew Thompson and Kaleb Henderson.

Betty’s kindness, strength, and love will be deeply missed by all who knew her.