Gene Clayton

POLAND - Gene Clayton, 67, died peacefully on February 21, 2024 surrounded by his family.

 Born in Youngstown on May 5, 1956, Gene was a man of dedication and hard work.

Gene graduated from Cardinal Mooney High School in 1975 and went on to become the President of Clayton Heating and Air Conditioning, where he worked for an impressive 50 years. His career was not merely a job but a passion that he embraced wholeheartedly. Known for his strong work ethic and commitment to excellence, Gene leaves behind a legacy of professionalism and integrity in the business world.

Aside from his professional accomplishments, Gene's true joy in life came from being with his family. He adored his wife, Kimberly, whom he married on January 17, 1985. Together they raised their four children, Jenna, Jessi, Channing and Geno, whom he was proud of each of their accomplishments. 

Gene's charming personality and unwavering loyalty endeared him to all who knew him. He cherished moments spent with his loved ones and created lasting memories with each one of them. In his free time, Gene enjoyed the simple pleasures of life and always found the greatest happiness in the presence of his family.

Gene is survived by his wife, Kimberly (DiGenova), daughters, Jenna Clayton of Cleveland, Jessi Clayton of Cleveland and Channing (Joseph Patsko) Clayton of Poland; granddaughter, Violet Jean Patsko; brothers Tim (Viive) Clayton, Rick (Sue) Clayton, and Dan (Louise) Clayton all of Poland; mother-in-law Rachele DiGenova of Youngstown; sisters-in-law Dodie DiGenova of Struthers and JoAnn Chipps of Poland; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his son, Geno Clayton, US Navy Seal; parents, Gene & Shirley Clayton; father-in-law Nick DiGenova; and brother-in-law Bill Chipps.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday at 12 pm noon at Holy Family Church.

In lieu of flowers, the family strongly requests donations to Akron Children's Hospital for Childhood Cancer Research. 

Professional arrangements are being handled by the Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, Poland Chapel