Michael Thomas Clayton
1951-2020
Michael Thomas Clayton was born on November 22nd, 1951 to Betty and Roy Clayton in Beaumont, Texas. He passed away on Wednesday, July 1, 2020 at the age of 69.
Michael (A.K.A. Mike / “Mikey”) is survived by his wife Beverly Clayton, his step-son Joshua Ford, his two children Matthew Clayton and Aimee Rowland, his son-in-law Jason Rowland, his two grandchildren Wyatt and Waylon Rowland, and his sister Deborah Burger.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Betty and Roy Clayton.
Mike attended Oklahoma State University where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Agriculture and Applied Science. Shortly after, he began a career working in the oil and gas industry, which started out at Halliburton. He spent the majority of his career in sales working for Balon Valves.
During his life, he was not only a man who worked hard to provide for his family but also an AMAZING golfer and cook! He hosted several company cookouts each year and always loved cooking steaks at home for his family.
Mike played golf for Oklahoma State University Cowboys. He was an NCAA champion at the Wheatshocker Invitational in Wichita, Kansas in 1975; His team later went on that year and won runner up in the NCAA National Championship. Then in 1976, his team won the National Championship. Mike’s name is also mentioned multiple times in the Oklahoma State Cowboy Golf magazine (57th year anniversary edition).
His passion for golf continued throughout his whole life. He used his talent to win several golf tournaments, as well as to coach others that were interested in the sport.
Mike loved football too, especially OSU football. He enjoyed hunting and fishing with his son and had a love for nature and animals, especially his pets. He took lots of pictures of sunsets, birds, and other critters that he enjoyed sharing through text messages with his family.
Most importantly, Mike was a loving father and believer in Jesus Christ. He valued the importance of a good handshake, looking people in the eyes when you first meet them, and remembering their names.
His family will miss the man they called Dad, Papa, and “Big ole Bear!”
I loved that man. We went through sepsis with him and it was sad. I’m a lot older, but I will always remember him and a great golf swing. Paul Coulter
Paul,
Thank you for loving my daddy! I know you helped him make a lot of good memories on the greens!! He endured so much for the last several years.
Mike and I worked together for 15 years at Balon! Mike was instrumental in getting me an interview at BALON and became my mentor and friend during my time there! We shared many great adventures together over 16 plus years! I will miss Mike and will be blessed to join him in Heaven someday!
To Mikes family, I send my heartfelt condolences.
Miss you Mike, sore high my friend!
Mike Hays
When I first met Mike he amazed me with his sleight of hand tricks, pulling a card out of my pocket that he somehow put there without my knowing. He was encouraging and helped me get fit for a Callaway Driver during a Demo Day. Great golfer with a beautiful wife, Beverly. I will remember him for his humor and am sorry that I didn’t get to spend more time with him. Rest in Peace, my friend.
I first met Mike back in 1993 while working for ANGI. We had a long time working and personal relationship. We played many rounds of golf together, enjoyed his cookouts and his humor. Mikey will be missed by many!