Obituary: Evelyn Joyce Clayton, 93, The Dalles

Evelyn Joyce Clayton (Maiden name - Aas), age 93, passed away peacefully on February 7, 2026, in The Dalles, Oregon.  A devoted Christian and beloved matriarch, Evelyn’s life was marked by faith, family, and quiet dedication to her community.

Born on December 29, 1932, in Pequot Lakes, Minnesota, Evelyn moved with her family to The Dalles, Oregon in 1943, where she graduated from The Dalles High School in 1950. She shared this milestone with her future husband Gilbert Clayton and her sister Arlene Kerbs. Evelyn and Gilbert’s bond began during his service in the U.S. Navy and National Guard and grew into a lifelong partnership rooted in love and mutual respect. Evelyn worked alongside Gilbert as a bookkeeper in their businesses; Gilbert Clayton Well Drilling and the family cherry orchard on Lambert Street.

Evelyn was an accomplished typist whose professional career spanned three decades. She worked diligently for attorneys and later at First Interstate Bank in The Dalles. Her precision and work ethic earned her the respect of colleagues and clients alike.

A woman of deep faith, Evelyn was confirmed in the Lutheran Church at the age of 13. Her spiritual life remained central throughout her years, guiding her actions and nurturing her enduring love for family.

Evelyn found joy in the simple pleasures of life—gardening vegetables in her backyard, crocheting, quilting blankets with her Lutheran World Relief group, and canning fruits & preserves that filled her home with warmth each season. These hobbies reflected her nurturing spirit and attention to detail.

She is lovingly remembered by her three sons: Craig (Kari), Dan, and Kent (Debbie); brother Orville Ray Aas (Sharon) and family; grandchildren Keith Clayton (Crystal) with children Cameron, Joaquin, Jackson, Zoe, and Sadie Grace; Neil Clayton (Erin) with children Natalie Patzkowski (Luke), Sean, and Samuel; Lindy Mongenel (Matt) with children Braxton and Enzo; Benjamin Chapman; Kenna Clayton; Kyle Clayton; Melissa Clayton (fiance’ Justin Paul), Austin Clayton. In total, Evelyn leaves behind eleven grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren who will carry forward her legacy of love.

Evelyn was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 66 years Gilbert Clayton; infant daughter Jan Marie; parents Orville Calmer Aas and Ruth Anne Aas; and sister Arlene Grace Kerbs.

May Evelyn’s memory bring comfort to all who knew her. A Memorial Service will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Faith Lutheran Church 2810 W 10th St. Light refreshments will be served after the Service.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Faith Lutheran Church, The Dalles or the Oregon Veterans Home.