Clayton Eric Thomas, passed away on January 31, 2023, at the age of 77. Clayton was born in Northfield, New Jersey on August 8, 1945, to Clayton O. Thomas and Margaret Louise (Marshall) Smith. Upon graduating from high school, Clayton enlisted in the U.S. Navy, where he served honorably for six years, rising to the rank of ABHAN (Seaman 3). Following his time in the Navy, Clayton worked a few jobs before relocating to Indianapolis, Indiana where he went to work as a Fireman with the Indianapolis Airport Authority Fire Department. Clayton served faithfully with IFD for the next 42 years, retiring in 2000. He was a member and director of the IFD Pipe & Drum Corp; the American Legion Post 182; and many other clubs and organizations, too numerous to name.

Clayton will be lovingly missed by his wife of 36 years, Judy (DaVee) Thomas, whom he married on July 6, 1986; daughters, Kaleema "Kelly" Massey (Lee) and Andrea Thomas; stepdaughters, Michelle Murphy and Nichole Flick (Mark); nine grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; sisters, Cindy Ash (Robert "Bob"), Caroline Smith (John), Gayle LaBouno and Judy Skinner; as well as many other extended family members and beloved friends.

Clayton was preceded in death by his parents, Clayton (Sylvia) Thomas and Margaret Smith (Alfred); sisters, Kathy Carmen and Glenda McDerment; and son-in-law, Jason Murphy.

Friends may call from 4pm until 8pm on Monday, February 6, 2023, and again from 11am until 1pm on Tuesday, February 7th at Flanner Buchanan – Washington Park East (10722 E. Washington St, Indpls). Funeral services will follow Tuesday's visitation, beginning at 1pm, at the funeral home. Military honors will be provided by the U.S. Navy and the Indianapolis Metropolitan Military Honor Guard. A flag presentation will be provided by the Indianapolis Metropolitan Fire Department. Entombment will be in Washington Park East Cemetery.