Tommie Mary Clayton

Tommie Mary Randall Clayton, born on March 18th, 1932, in Dallas, TX, peacefully departed this world surrounded by her loving family on November 4, 2023. She was the daughter of Thomas Delaney Randall and Mary Dinah Washington Randall. Following her parents' separation, Tommie found solace in the care of her Great Aunt Hattie Boyd.

In 1940, Tommie's journey led her to Albuquerque, NM, under the guidance of her mother, Mary, and into the home of her stepfather, Arthur Paris, and stepbrother, Sonny Paris, residing on South Broadway and Rio Bravo. Tommie's educational path included East San Jose, John Marshall, Lincoln Jr. High, and Albuquerque High School.

In the tapestry of her life, love blossomed when she met Robert A. Clayton in 1947, leading to a union celebrated in matrimony a year later. Their shared journey endured until Robert's passing in 1978. Together, they were blessed with four children and their spouses: Robert Clayton Jr. Deceased) (Beverly Clayton), Irene Clayton (Deceased), Kimberly Clayton (Deceased), Thomas R. Clayton (Brenda Clayton), Mary Clayton Young (Eddie Young), and Martin J. Clayton (Anna Marneris).

Tommie was an active and devoted member of various churches, including Grant Chapel AME, Mt. Olive, and Faith Tabernacle Baptist Church. In 2004, she felt the call to return to her family church, Mt. Olive, where she rejoined under the leadership of former pastor Michael Sumbry and remained a steadfast member until her final days.

Tommie was reunited in eternity with her beloved husband, parents, stepfather, siblings, mother, and beloved Clayton in-laws: her oldest son Robert Jr. and daughters-in-laws Irene Clayton, Kimberly Clayton, sisters Evelyn Johnson, Rena Bendaw, brothers Sonny Paris, and Robert Paris, as well as great-grandson Jelani Alex Clayton and granddaughter Paris Clayton.

She leaves behind a legacy of love and family, survived by her sons, Thomas (Dady) and Martin Clayton, and daughter Mary Clayton Young. Tommie is also survived by her grandchildren, Anthony (Tony) Clayton, Ajamu (Jamu) Clayton (spouse Stephanie), Rashaad A. Clayton, Abina Whitaker, Jamila Clayton, Deanna Young, Thomas Clayton Jr. (spouse Tenadia), Robert (Bobby) Clayton, Tonya Miller, Susan Woods, and her loyal and faithful canine companion Buddy Clayton. Her great-grandchildren, Jada and Anida Clayton, Olivia and Laila Woods, Josiah, Tamia, and Kwame J. Clayton, Leasia Ricks, and Rihanna Clayton-Johnson, will continue to carry her spirit forward. Additionally, she is survived by a multitude of beloved nieces, nephews, and a host of friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Visitation for Tommie will be held Thursday November 16, 2023 5-7 pm, at Strong-Thorne Mortuary, 1100 Coal Ave. SE Albuquerque, NM 87106.

Tommie will be laid to rest at a gravesite service at Fairview Memorial Park, November 17, 2023, at 11 am. 700 Yale Blvd SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106. A Celebration of Life and memorial will be held later.

Tommie’s life was a testament to the enduring power of love, family, and faith. May she rest in eternal peace.