Ray E. Clinton, of Sunset Hills, Mo., passed away on July 31, 2025, at his home surrounded by loved ones, after a long battle with cancer. He was 82 years old.
Ray was a man of quiet strength, gentle humor, and deep love. He was married to his childhood sweetheart, Carolyn “Kay” (Vaughn) Clinton, for 62 years—a true partnership filled with laughter, shared goals, and countless memories. He was the proud dad of Pam Clinton and Diane (Clinton) Walters and the beloved grandpa to Daniel (Dani) Walters and Heather Walters. Along with two great-granddaughters, Macy and Dakota Walters, who bring a special joy to our family.
Ray is also survived by his sister, Judy (the late Frank) McDonnell, and brother, Terry (Karen) Clinton.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Louis Clinton and Hazel (DeGonia) Clinton; brother, Louis Edward Clinton; sister, Ida Morris Saunders; and brother, Norman W. Clinton.
Ray and Kay married young, and after layoffs at Emerson Electric, Ray was looking for a job to support his young family. He got really lucky! The first interview he was sent to by the State Unemployment Office was to a company named “L.E. Sauer Machine Company.” Little did he know, 40+ years later, he would retire from there as Vice President, Sales. The company was instrumental in helping him complete his education. Ray earned a business degree from Washington University, night school—an accomplishment he was very proud of, as he was the first person in his family to do so.
Ray cherished his family above all else. Some of his happiest moments were spent during the family’s annual vacations to Gulf Shores, Alabama—a tradition the whole family looked forward to every year. Whether it was enjoying seafood dinners or just sitting on the balcony listening to the waves, Ray treasured that time together. Those trips weren’t just vacations—they were part of the rhythm of his life and a reflection of how deeply he valued being surrounded by the people he loved.
Ray had a lifelong passion for golf and bowling. Ray and Kay bowled together on mixed leagues for over 30 years. It was a good weekly night out, plenty of competition, and enjoying good conversation with friends. Ray wasn’t introduced to golf until he was in his 20s. He caught the bug quickly and enjoyed the game throughout his life, making many friends along the way.
If desired, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network at pancan.org/donate.
SERVICES: Visitation will be at KUTIS AFFTON CHAPEL (10151 Gravois Rd., 63123) on Friday, August 8th, 1:00 – 4:00 PM, with the funeral service at 4:00 PM.
My heartfelt sympathy to the family.
Ray was a good golfing buddy.
There’s not enough room to say all the good things I and the other golfers experienced with Ray.
You will really be missed .
Bobby
Love this family Ray was such a good man took care of his family.You could see the love for Kay and his kids. And there for his grandkids like a father.
I met Ray when I joined The Midwest Amateur Golf League some years ago. He welcomed me into the group and quickly became a friend I enjoyed sharing time with. Always cheerful and kind. We will miss him dearly.
Ray was the best brother he was always there for me when I needed him never judged me I will miss him the rest of my life I know he’s in heaven and no more pain
I also met Ray as a member of the Midwest amateur golf group. It was a sad to hear the news. The family will remain in our prayers. He will be missed.
What an amazing man & family! I am a long time high school friend of Dianes. I was lucky enough to get to join them on a lot of vacations. From the Ozark when we was only 16 to gulf shores last October. I have never met a family like this one! I never heard Ray say a cuss word. They were truly the best “American Family”! Kay you are in my prayers! RIP Ray! You will be missed. Hugs filled with love goes out to Diane (Princess) & Pam & the whole family! Thank you Ray & Kay for allowing me to join so many family fun times!
Sending each of you hugs. May all the good memories of Ray wrap and hold you. My heartfelt sympathy for the loss of this kind and loving man.
Truly the best uncle. I have so many memories, but probably the most important one is that I always felt welcomed with Uncle Ray. Even as a kid, he always treated me as someone worth talking to and joking with. I never felt like I was being a pest around the adults. 🙂 As an adult, I appreciate that even more and am thankful for his wisdom and humor that he shared.
Aunt Kay, I am so, so sorry and continue to pray for you in the days ahead and am here for anything.
Pam and Diane, the same goes for both of you. It’s a different world when our dads aren’t walking with us.
I love you all!
Les
Ray was my dad’s boss at Sauer for 30 years. Many of my childhood memories include Ray and Kay and the infamous Sauer Christmas parties. My dad considered Ray one of his best and closest friends. Dad passed away last July and I know it hurt Ray when he couldn’t come his services. During Covid my dad turned 80 and Ray and Kay contributed to the birthday video I made for the big celebration. It was classic Ray with sarcastic humor that made everyone laugh out loud. I hope they are golfing together again and throwing back some cold ones. Kay, I am know how strong you are but am thankful that you are surrounded by loved ones. Thanks for taking such good care of Ray. Sending love to the entire family.