B. Forrest Clayton

B. Forrest Clayton, 88, passed away December 17, 2017, after several months of hospitalization. Forrest will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 34 years, Sandra, and his children David (Julie), Randall (Tim), Carole (Jack), and Catherine (Evan). He will also be fondly remembered by his six grandchildren Stephanie, Olivia, Joelle, Matthew, Sarah, and Hannah. Forrest is predeceased by his parents, Reed and Minnie Reese Clayton, and brother, Joseph Clayton.

Forrest developed both a love of photography and an unconventional sense of humor growing up, and he was proud of getting his pilot's license at a young age. Forrest attended University of Georgia, Atlanta Division, and was in Who’s Who in American Colleges and Universities. While there, he was an active member of campus life including Delta Sigma Pi, Vice President, Student Chapter; Society for Advancement of Management, President; Intramural Key Honor Society, Secretary; Senior Class President, Board of Directors; Delta Sigma Pi Lodge; and the Student Council. Forrest graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration.

After working over the years in several areas including publishing and sales, Forrest turned his attention to his long-time hobby, photography. His first real stint with a camera took place as an aerial photographer for the U.S. Navy. Forrest loved the art of capturing special moments on film, playing with light against dark, balance, focus and framing. In the early 1980's, along with his brother, Joseph, Forrest opened a professional photography studio in Alpharetta, GA, called Clayton Camera Craft. He worked during the week at the studio and photographed weddings and other events on the weekends. From weddings, to individual portraiture, to commercial work, he enjoyed the challenge of telling stories through images. His sense of humor was nearly always present. One time on his way back from a long engagement, he rear-ended the car in from of him accidently. Forrest exclaimed, "Found it!" and exited his car to make apologies.

After his brother retired, Forrest continued in the business until 1992, when he sold it and moved to Cleveland, GA, with Sandra to live out his own retirement. During these years he enjoyed nature, working in his garden, and walking with his adoring pets.

A celebration of Forrest’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m., on Sunday, April 8, at Clarkesville Baptist Church, 1287 Washington St., Clarkesville, GA, with Reverend Randall T. Clayton officiating.