Clayton Neil McGillevry, 73, passed away peacefully May 4, 2025, after a brief stay in a hospital. Clayton was born Oct. 10, 1951, in Kansas City to Jerry and Betty McGillevry. His parents moved to Lake Ozark to operate a seven-cabin resort called Pleasure Point Resort. Jerry McGillevry captained the excursion boats Larry Don, Commander and Tom Sawyer for many years and Clayton was his first mate. They both loved the water and making people happy, and sharing their knowledge about the Lake of the Ozarks.

In 1970, the family moved to Lexington to run the new Holiday Inn. Clayton helped out there by checking people into their rooms.

Clayton lived in Arizona for many years and continued to enjoy boating on many lakes. He also operated a boat repair business. He provided excursions in California to Catalina Island for several years.

Clay and his father shared the love of boating on all waters. He also worked in boat sales.

From 1969 to 1971, Clayton attended Wentworth Military Academy. He was part of the National Honor Guard while attending Wentworth.

He also attended Southwest Missouri State University and Central Missouri State University.

Clayton enjoyed participating in several plays held at the Farris Theatre in Richmond.

Clay is survived by his sisters, Debbie (Alan) Dreves and Laura Morton (Mike) Morton of Atlanta; nieces, Andrea (Cody) Henson of Gulf Port, Fla., and Rebecca (Brad) Sigety of Charleston, S.C.; and two nephews, Andrew Dreves and Tyler Morton.

There will be no services. Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond is in charge of the arrangements.

Please share your memories of Clayton with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.