Clayton Richard Futrell's Obituary
Clayton Richard Futrell
Clayton Richard Futrell of Lakewood, WA passed away peacefully November 20, 2016 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s. He was 80 years old. Born August 28, 1936 in Model, Tennessee, Clay was a devout Christian, loving husband and father, proud Army veteran and retired executive vice-president of Zetron Electronics. He joined the United States Army at the age of 17 after previously being unable to enlist when he was 15. He served for 20 years, rising to the rank of Master Sergeant. Clay served two tours of duty in Vietnam, receiving a Bronze Star for his valor. It was while serving in the Army in Japan in 1956 he met his future bride, Fusa (Ruth). They were married in 1957 and had three children: Melinda, Ruth and Richard. Clay was stationed all over the world before settling in Lakewood in 1974, after retiring from the Army. Clay then worked in the telecommunications and electronics field, traveling extensively in China and Asia. He retired from Zetron at the age of 59. He then devoted the rest of his life to his family, service to others in his faith, and his hobbies.
Clay became ordained as a minister after his retirement from his professional career. He served as a pastor to a retirement community in San Carlos, Mexico for a number of years when he and Fusa were wintering there. They also wintered for a few years in Lake Havasu, Arizona. Clay and Fusa loved to travel. Some of their favorite places to visit included Japan, Toronto, Vancouver B.C., California, the Oregon Coast and of course visiting family all over the United States.
Clay was a man of many interests and talents. He spoke 4 languages and had a deep love of reading. He was avid hiker around the Pacific Northwest, especially enjoying Mt. Rainer. Clay loved to go crabbing in Steilacoom or Tacoma on a warm, sunny day. He was a master gardener, having bumper crops of tomatoes, squash and snap peas every season. Clay was a member of First Baptist Church of Lakewood for over 40 years, serving as a deacon and in many other leadership roles. He was extremely generous with his time and money to those in need, giving to local causes as well as sponsoring the schooling for several international students. Clay was often sought out for advice, because of his wisdom and thoughtful nature. He was a wonderful, loving man, and he will be missed by all his many family and friends.
Clay is survived by his wife of almost 60 years, Fusa. He is also survived by his children Melinda Clarke (Rick) of Lakewood, WA, Ruth McClain (Dale) of Atlanta, GA and Richard Futrell (Sheri) of Kimberling City, MO, as well as his 9 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren.
A viewing will be held at Mountain View Funeral Home in Lakewood, WA, on Friday, November 25, from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM. A celebration of life service will be held at First Baptist Church of Lakewood on Saturday, November 26 at 11:00 AM, with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be sent to Washington State Alzheimer’s Association (http://www.alz.org/alzwa/) on behalf of Clay.
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