Richard Thomas Clayton, Sr., 72, of Woodstock, GA passed away peacefully at Kennestone Hospital on June 14, 2019.�� He was born on January 4, 1947 in Jackson, MS to Mr. James P. Clayton and Mrs. Frances Pace Clayton. ����������������� Richard was a loving husband, father, and grandfather.� He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army from 1968-1970.� He participated in the Vietnam War where he earned the Bronze Star with an oak leaf cluster.� He loved traveling with his wife and being outdoors especially in his boat on the lake or in a National Park.� Nothing made him happier than playing with his grandchildren or finding a bargain.� In his earlier years, he was a soccer coach and always loved any sporting event. He was a proud member of the VFW post #5262 in Canton, GA.� � He is survived by his loving wife, Patricia Underwood Clayton, and his children Susan & Eric Ballou of Alma, CO; Sharon & Roger Fernandes of Woodstock, GA; Richard & Cindy Clayton Jr. of Roswell, GA; and Russell & Amy Clayton of Hiram, GA.� He is also survived by eight grandchildren:� Madeline, Lily, Caedmon, Lucas, Jacob, Emily, Everett, and Stewart. He is also survived by one sister, Pamela & Ed Myers, Newnan, GA; � A memorial service for Richard will be held on Friday, June 21, 2019 at 1:30 PM at the Georgia National Cemetery located at 1080 Scott Hudgens Dr. in Canton, GA. �A visitation will be held from 6:30-8:30 PM on Thursday, June 20, 2019 at Poole Funeral Home at 1970 Eagle Drive, Woodstock, GA 30189.� In lieu of flowers, the family requests that a donation be made to VFW Post #5262, Care of: Dave Konwick - Quartermaster, 278 Moose Loop, Canton, GA 30114.� Poole Funeral Home in Woodstock, GA is handling all arrangements.