George Edward Clayton Jr, 86, entered his heavenly home on November 24, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.  His family finds deep peace in knowing he is now in the presence of his Heavenly Father, the One he faithfully served all the days of his life. 

Born in Millen, Georgia, George was the son of George and Lessie Clayton.  As a young man he proudly served in the Air National Guard. George was a member of First Alliance Church in Toccoa, Georgia  

A devoted husband of 65 years to the love of his life Carolyn Ruth Clayton.  George was a man whose life reflected the goodness of God.  Through his “Sonshine” Bookstores in Toccoa and Cornelia, Georgia, he shared the light of Christ with his community.  Those years brought him lifelong friendships and countless opportunities to reflect the love of Jesus to others. 

Family was the treasure of George’s heart. He found joy in gathering those he loved - hosting friends and family at their lake home most weekends throughout the summer, laughing, telling stories, playing games, sharing good food, boating, tubing, skiing and cheering on Georgia Tech football, bringing fun and energy to every gathering.  Some of his most cherished memories were made on Lake Hartwell with his dearest friends.  The lake was their refuge, playground and the backdrop of generations of memories! 

He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Ruth Harris Clayton; his sons Greg (Tracey), George III “Chip” (Angela); his daughter Sheri Rich; his sister Brenda Griffin; and his cherished grandchildren - Trey, Garrett, Shane, Jessica, Jeni, and Savanna.  

He is also survived by his five great-grandchildren - Solomon, Silas, Samuel, Liam and Lyla along with many other dear family members including nieces and nephews that were blessed by his love and laughter. 

George is preceded in death by his grandson Ryan Rich and son-in-law Billy Rich.  His family takes comfort in knowing he is joyfully reunited with them in the presence of the Lord. 

As his family mourns their earthly loss, they hold tightly to the promises of God: 

“Well done, good and faithful servant. Enter the joy of the Lord”  Matthew 25:23 

“To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord” 2 Corinthians 5:8 

“And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes. There shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying.” Revelation 21:4 

These words remind all who loved him that his race is finished, his faith is made sight, and he now rests in eternal peace, held in the arms of his Savior. 

A visitation will be held from 10:00 am until 12:00 pm on Saturday, November 29, 2025 at the Fox & Weeks Islands Chapel. A graveside service will immediately follow the visitation at Forest Lawn Memory Garden.