Caroline Jane Clayton

Caroline Jane Clayton, 78, formerly of Earlington KY, passed away peacefully on May 23, 2023, with her children by her side. Caroline had moved to be near her daughter in Jefferson, Georgia while bravely fighting a 2 year battle with colon cancer. The prayers, phone calls, gifts and cards she received during her treatments were a source of immeasurable joy, comfort, and strength to her.

   Caroline was born in Earlington, KY, on Aug 29th, 1944 to Turner and Gladys Clayton. She was the youngest of four children. Caroline was a graduate of Earlington High School, Class of 1962.  She attended Secretary School, which she used in her early working career at Trover Clinic, Madisonville Gas Company, Outwood, Club Aluminum and as the executive secretary for Cawood Ledford, the voice of the Kentucky Wildcats. She also worked as a Congressional Field Representative for the 1st District of Ky.  Caroline later returned to college, earning her BS from Western Ky University.  She worked for Madisonville Community College, retiring as the Financial Aid Director there.  After retirement , Caroline served as the City Clerk for Earlington and was elected to serve on the City Council.  Caroline was a member of the Earlington First Christian Church where she served as an elder, board chairman and a member of the Prayer Shawl ministry.  In her spare time she enjoyed visiting family, reading, listening to music and cheering on the KY Wildcat basketball team.

   Caroline was predeceased by her parents, two brothers, Bill and Jim Clayton, and brother in law, Donald Smith.  She is survived by her sister, Mary Ann Smith, two children, Lori Bartek, husband Greg Bartek, and D.G. Rodgers, fiance' Laura Lockeridge. She was Granni' to 3 Grandchildren, Oz Rodgers, Summer Bartek, Andrew Bartek, wife Jamie Bartek.  She was The Great Gran to Violet Marie Bartek and Caroline Clare Bartek.  Caroline will be remembered as a treasured Auntie to Nieces and Nephews, a dear Cousin to many and a steadfast friend to all who knew her.  

   A Celebration of Life will be held at the Earlington First Christian Church on Saturday, August 5th at 10:30 AM. The church will be open at 10:00 AM.

Caroline was a strong proponent of furthering education and her encouragement helped many reach their academic goals. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Caroline J. Clayton Scholarship for Single Mothers with a financial need for tuition, to further their education. 

Donations with Caroline Clayton on the check subject line, can be sent to 

Madisonville Community College

ATTN: Advancement Office

2000 College Dr.

Madisonville, KY 42431

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