Raymond Claytor

Raymond Junior Claytor was born on February 6, 1935, in McComas, West Virginia, to the late William Thomas Claytor and Molly Esther Covington. He was the second of three children.

Raymond passed away peacefully on September 18, 2025, at UPMC Shadyside Hospital in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Esther White; brother, William Claytor; son, Raymond Claytor Jr.; grandson, Jordan M. Claytor; and nephew, Michael White.

A graduate of Bramwell High School in West Virginia, Raymond went on to serve in the U.S. Army beginning in 1955. Following his service, he studied Architecture and Civil Engineering at Bluefield State College. In 1958, while in the Army Reserves, he met and married the love of his life, Gloria Jean Dickerson. Together they shared 67 wonderful years of marriage and raised three children: Ray Jr., Anita Anne, and Pamela Jean.

Raymond dedicated over four decades as an Operating Room Technician at UPMC Shadyside Hospital before retiring. He also worked for 30 years at Hertz Rental Car at Pittsburgh International Airport (Union #926), retiring once more. He and Gloria were longtime members of Mt. Ararat Baptist Church in Pittsburgh.

Those who knew Raymond remember him as kind yet firm, a devoted family man, and a role model to his children and grandchildren. He had a warm sense of humor and a deep love for his family—especially his wife, whom he adored and protected for nearly seven decades.

Raymond was a proud Steelers fan who enjoyed watching games with his grandson Tyrone. He had a taste for Cadillac cars, hoagies, Snyder's cheese curls, butter pecan ice cream, and Mineo’s pizza.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Gloria; grandchildren: Tyrone L. Claytor, Raymond W. Claytor, and Alexis J. Brown; great-grandchildren: Tyrone Claytor Jr., Avery Rae Claytor, Ava J. Williams, TySean Claytor, Vernon A. Williams III, Jordynn Claytor, and Ty'Lynn Claytor.

He also leaves behind one beloved aunt, Matte Paige (Detroit, age 99); nieces Karen and Kim White (Maryland); nephew Doug Claytor (Pittsburgh); cousin Roy Greene Jr. (Maryland); a host of cousins and extended family; and special friend Peter Scanga. He was also preceded in death by cherished pets Tiny and survived by Sebastian and Suede. Raymond’s legacy is one of love, dedication, and quiet strength. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered. 

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