My past memory of Clayton is that we served on a committee of Presbytery together. My most recent memory of Clayton is that I moved into Monta Vista Grove Homes about three days before he and Jeannie moved in. On the following Saturday Clayton and Jeannie were at my door with cookies to welcome me here. I was so thrilled to see them and to meet Jeannie, but embarrassed that I had not done anything to welcome them. Jeannie I am glad you are here so that I, we, can nurture, comfort and love you. May our God continue to Bless and keep you and family and WELCOME TO THIS BELOVED COMMUNITY. Catherine Hughes
Polly and I extend our deepest sympathy to Jean and all the family and we thank you for sharing this inspiring, uplifting memorial service with your Monte Vista Grove Homes community. It truly reflected Clayton's life and faith. What a blessing! Bill & Polly Craig
Clayton lives on in the video of our daughter's wedding. He officiated with heartfelt and meaningful words. We have been graced by his life. With sadness at his passing, Joan Fox and family
As a colleague in the Presbyterian Church (USA) and the Presbytery of the Pacific, Clayton leaves me with two clarion calls: 1) a commitment to our connectionalism, and 2) acknowledge what is "shimmering in the Spirit", and go with that. Thank you Clayton for your tremendous leadership over the years for the church of Jesus Christ.
Heartfelt sympathy to you as we remember the good times- choir parties, singing together, sharing God's bounty during joyful times and God's grace during the bittersweet.
I served on the Pastor Nominating Committee of St. Peter's by the Sea which called Clayton to serve as its Senior Pastor and head of staff. I was one of two who met him at the airport on his first visit to Rancho Palos Verdes to meet with our committee. It was love at first sight. Clayton was a warm, talented, enthusiastic young man with just the background we were seeking. He stayed with our congregation for 17 years, and I was troubled when he left, because he had served us well. When I learned of his sudden death, I was heartbroken for Jean and his children and for all of his many friends who loved him. Ruth
On behalf of Shipmates and Singleship at LOPC, thank you Clayton for your heart that you gave to us every Sunday night and more. Thanks to you my faith grew and I have gained lifelong friends. Peggie Kubisiak Schiller
Our family is saddened by the loss of Clayton and we pray for you as you grieve your loss. It was a pleasure to know Clayton and see the joy that he brought to Jean and the life that they built together. Thankfully we have a hope in Christ Jesus that we will see Clayton again. I can only imagine how hard this must be for those who were fortunate enough to know him better than I. Love, Keith Goodenberger
I was the interim youth director at St. Peter's by the Sea in 1996-1997. Although I worked with Clayton for under a year, his leadership helped to form me as a pastor. He knew that relationships were the heart of Christ's ministry and therefore for pastoral ministry as well. On my first night of work, two young students showed up at youth group drunk. I had no idea how to handle it. Clayton was clear. Take the girls out for ice cream. Ask them about their lives. You will know them for more than the one foolish act you have witnessed. I took his advice, and those young people sensed a bit of God's amazing grace. Under Clayton's leadership, I started the process of becoming an inquirer for the ministry of Word and Sacrament. He came to every Committee on Preparation for Ministry Meeting and helped to support me through the whole process. In part, the pastor I am today is shaped by Clayton's love, guidance, wisdom and generous grace. I am blessed that God brought us together for a season.
We knew Clayton as a pastor at LOPC. He and Steve Wirth were the “youngsters” and we so enjoyed their ministry. Clayton shared his music, caring heart and deep faith with us all. RIP, dear one. Our condolences to his wife and family.
I met Clayton while singing in the choir at St. Francis. I was amazed at the synergy between him and his beloved wife, Jeannie. I've never seen a couple more lovingly teamed in an common endeavor, - singing - that was so dear to each of them. What a blessing to each other and to others! I was shocked of hear of his passing. It reminded me how important it is to live in the moment, in the midst of life's uncertainties. May God embrace him with love and joy and comfort Jeannie and the family in their loss.
To the family -- our warm, heart felt sorrow over the loss of a very remarkable and loving man. As executive presbyter of the San Diego Presbytery, I often had the privilege of working with Clayton in an official capacity . He was extremely competent in representing the Board of Pensions. He was a joy to work with, always upbeat and encouraging. He seemed to be the happiest guy on earth. On a more personal note, my wife and I met with him a few times regarding my pending retirement. I was a year behind him. He gave us good counsel. We're so sorry he had such a short run at retirement. He loved his wife and kids. He would always mention them. God bless you as you in all your days ahead. God -- and we -- walk with you. Blessings, Michael and Karen Mudgett, San Diego, CA.
In my first year on the job I had a seminar to lead in Southern California, and Clayton planned to drop by and greet the participants who were "his people." Somehow the hosting organization dropped the ball on the coffee/treats service (ESSENTIAL for an all-day event!!) so, in a panic, I called Clayton. He rearranged his schedule, arrived early with coffee and treats for all, saved the day and made me feel special for having asked him. Classic Clayton Cobb. He taught me that a generous spirit and a smile enact the gospel to those receiving it. What an ambassador of Christ!
Clayton would make you feel like you were the most important person when he spoke with you. He would give your hand an extra squeeze or touch your shoulder to give you living care. He had a great sense of humor. One adult Bible class he used The Simpsons videos. He was the best Pastor and faith mentor !! He is deeply loved and will never be forgotten! Blessings to his family and friends.-Susan Sanborn
Clayton was my youth pastor at Lafayette Orinda Presbyterian Church in the early '80s. He was an amazing musician with a strong voice, a beautiful smile and a heart full of love and laughter. I recently relocated to Idaho, party due to a Mission Trip Clayton took us on in the summer of 1981 to the Sawtooth Mountains. Over the past few weeks, many past members of the youth group and I have been back in touch and its been a wonderful walk down memory lane. Thank you, Clayton for the gifts you gave us way back when and for the memories and friendships we all share because of you!