THOMAS CLAXTON

Thomas L. Claxton, Jr., 71, died January 2, 2022 at Blessing Hospital in Quincy, Ill.  He was born on March 28, 1950 in Oklahoma City, Okla., to Thomas L. and Joyce Light Claxton, Sr. He married Donna Trautwein on September 22, 1973 in Oklahoma City.

Tom graduated high school in Grain Valley, Mo., then joined the United States Army where he served in Vietnam.  After his honorable discharge in 1970, he went to Culver Stockton College, graduating with a Bachelor’s in Social Studies in 1975.  Tom began his teaching career at Lewis County C-1 District.  He relocated to Pittsfield in 1985, teaching for the Pikeland School District. Tom taught both of his sons in school and was very proud to pass his classroom podium to his son, Matthew, who is also a teacher.  He also coached a variety of boys and girls sports teams at the Jr. High level through High School level over the decades including baseball, basketball, track, and volleyball.  

He is survived by his wife, Donna Claxton; sons, Matthew Claxton of Godfrey, Ill., and Andrew (Amanda) Claxton of Griggsville, Ill.; four grandchildren; brothers, Brian Lemons, Oklahoma City, Okla., and Robert Joe Claxton, Roosevelt, Okla.; sister, Brenda (Glen) Edwards, Houston, Tx.; numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins; and many feline friends.

He was preceded in death by his mother and stepfather, Joyce and Don Lemons; father, Thomas L. Claxton, Sr.; sister, Paula Estes; and beloved cat, Mitchell.

A public visitation was held January 6, 2022 at Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield.  Private funeral services were held with interment at Pittsfield West Cemetery. 
Memorials: Pike County All Wars Museum or the Pike County Animal Shelter.  Online condolences may be left at www.nieburfh.com