Verna "Grams" Ann Lewis Clayton

Verna Lewis Clayton, a devoted public servant and cherished family matriarch, passed away on October 8, 2024, at Sugar Fork Crossing in Anderson, Indiana, at the age of 87. She was born on February 28, 1937, in Hamden, Ohio.  Verna lived a life of extraordinary service, love, and community spirit. 

Verna's passion for learning took her to Oklahoma State University, Harper College, and the University of Illinois, where she laid the foundation for a career spanning decades.  In 1969, she moved to Buffalo Grove, Illinois, a community that would become the heart of her public service.  She was elected Village Clerk in 1971, a position she held until 1979, and then served as the Mayor of Buffalo Grove from 1979 to 1991.  During her time as Mayor, Verna also held significant roles in the Illinois Municipal League and the National League of Cities, where her leadership left a lasting impact. 

Verna's commitment to service extended to the state level when she was elected to the Illinois House of Representatives, serving from 1993 to 1999.  Her work on the Transportation Committee took her to the U.S. Congress, where she testified on the vital need for infrastructure improvements.  She was honored to serve on committees with Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush, contributing her insights and dedication to national initiatives. 

Even amidst her many achievements, Verna never lost sight of what was most important—her family.  To her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, she was simply "Grams," always present with a listening ear, warm hugs, and an abundance of love. Her greatest joy came from time spent with her family, whether it was celebrating milestones or simply sharing stories around the dinner table. 

Verna was preceded in death by her loving husband, Frank R. Clayton Jr.; her sister, Nancy (Paul) L. Schlicher, and her nephew, Marc Schlicher. She was the proud daughter of Yail and Matthews Lewis, who also preceded her in death. Verna is survived by her daughter, Valerie Harp (John) of New Castle, Indiana, her son, Barry Clayton (Ginger) of Jupiter, Florida, and her son-in-law, Robert Euneman of Ettowah, NC. 

Verna's legacy lives on through her grandchildren: Jason (Beth) Euneman of Indianapolis, Kara (Cory) Fairer of Pendleton, Indiana, Kristi (Adam) Devries of Anderson, Indiana, Alexandra (Ryan) Fitzgerald of Vero Beach, Florida, and Matthew (Marissa) Clayton of Woodbine, Maryland. She adored her nine great-grandchildren: Julien, Shawn, Ares, Jayden, Travis, Adria, Emma, Olivia, and Madeline. 

Verna's life was a testament to the power of dedication and love. She touched countless lives with her unwavering commitment to public service and her ability to make everyone feel like family. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege to know her and in the communities she helped to shape.