Clayton Southam

If there ever comes a day when we can't be together, keep me in your heart, I'll stay there forever...

Our dear Clayton R Southam, "Moe", returned to his Heavenly Father on October 9, 2025 surrounded by his loving family at the age of 73. He was born in Vernal, Utah on August 2, 1952 as a twin to Niles and Frances (Pitt) Southam.

He attended Uintah High School, where he participated in marching band and wrestling, graduating in 1970. He then studied mechanics for one year at Utah Tech (now UVU). He married his high school sweetheart, Jerile Murray, on August 1, 1974 in the Provo Utah Temple. They were blessed with three beautiful daughters - Meika, Chanda, and Jada Jae. He loved being a girl dad, but always wished for a son. So much so, that he would tuck his daughters' hair up into a ball cap and take them to the father & sons outing. He was later blessed with the sons he always wanted, three wonderful sons-in-law.

He was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He has a strong testimony and love for his Savior, Jesus Christ. He served in the Arizona/New Mexico mission from 1972-1974. He fulfilled many church callings. One of his favorites was serving in the Elders Quorum Presidency.

He had a great love for driving truck. He drove countless miles and met many life-long friends during his 40 years as a truck driver. He took pride in his trucks and had fun by adding extra lights and antennas. Dad never met a stranger. Everyone loved Moe. He cherished spending time with his family. His grandkids were the light of his life, bringing a smile to his face. He supported and attended many of their activities. Some of his favorite things to do included camping, hunting, shooting, fishing, ham radio, square dancing and bowling with his sweetheart.

He is survived by his eternal companion Jerile; and his children Meika & Bart Holmes,Chanda & Dallin Parks, Jada & Rafe Dudley; as well as 12 grandkids Taydn & Kelly, Jarek, and Annika Holmes; Daxton, Carsten, Preston, Kinley, and Breya Parks; Adison, Kenna, and Finlee Dudley; one great grandson Ryler Holmes. Siblings Connie Cole, Nila Richards, Carol Rae Hunting, and his twin, Clifton Southam.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Niles and Frances (Pitt) Southam; Richard & Margery (Shiner) Murray; brother, Glade Southam; and many other loved ones. 

How lucky are we to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard. We will always miss your big hugs, contagious smile, and humble heart. We love you so much!!!

Funeral services will be held Thursday October 16, 2025, 11:00am at Ashley 3rd WardLDS Chapel (235 East 600 South, Vernal). A viewing for family and friends will be held Wednesday evening from 6-8pm at Ashley Valley Funeral Home (410 North 800 West, Vernal) and Thursday 9:45-10:45am at the church. Interment will be held in the Vernal Memorial Park under the direction of Ashley Valley Funeral Home.