Martin J. Clayton

On July 2, 2026, we lost our beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and cherished friend, Marty, who passed peacefully at the age of 88. Born on January 18, 1938, in Holyoke, Massachusetts, Marty was the loving son of the late Walter B. and Alma (Theroux). He was predeceased by the love of his life, Rosemary (Bosbach), his sister Carole Foran, and his son Martin Jr. Together, they now watch over the family they treasured so deeply. Raised in Holyoke, Marty graduated from Holyoke High School in 1955. During his school years, he distinguished himself as an athlete, earning letters in both soccer and basketball. His competitive spirit and sportsmanship were lifelong qualities that he carried into his professional and personal life. Marty’s love for sports continued throughout his life, as he spent countless hours on the tennis courts with friends in Groton Long Point, CT, often playing the role of "Director" for the much-loved "Fitch-Off" tournament. An avid golfer, he was a respected member of both the Stonington Country Club and Vineyards Country Club, where he enjoyed the camaraderie of the TNT group. His leisure time was often accompanied by cigars and classic cars, symbols of his appreciation for life's finer moments In 1968, Marty founded the Martin J. Clayton Insurance Agency, a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and dedication. His leadership extended beyond his business as he served proudly on the Board of Directors at the Bank of Western Massachusetts. His role as the owner of the Yankee Pedlar from 1995 to 2016 marked another chapter in his career, during which his warm smile and sarcastic wit endeared him to colleagues and clients alike. Marty’s genuine kindness and generous spirit touched the lives of many. His home was a place of warmth and welcome, a testament to his gift for making everyone feel valued.

His legacy is carried forward by his children, Kimberlee (and her husband, Neil), and Jeffrey (and his wife, Elizabeth). His grandchildren, Clayton (and his wife, Rebecca), Sam (and his wife, Abby), Hannah, Alexandra (and her partner, Josh), Julia (and her husband, Phil), Martin, and Zachary, along with his six great-grandchildren, will remember him as a source of wisdom and strength, a guiding light in their lives.

A celebration of Marty’s life will be held on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, from 9:00 to 10:30am at the Barry J. Farrell Funeral Home, 2049 Northampton Street, Holyoke with a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00am in Blessed Sacrament Church, 1945 Northampton Street, Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery, all in Holyoke.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Lewy Body Dementia Association, Inc., a cause dear to their hearts. Donations can be made online at Lewy Body Dementia Association, Inc. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Nova Leap Home Care, Orchard Valley Memory Care, and Baystate Hospice for their compassionate care and support during Marty’s final days. Their dedication and kindness will never be forgotten. As we say goodbye to a remarkable man, we find comfort in knowing that Marty’s legacy of love, wit, and generosity will continue to inspire all who knew him. He will be profoundly missed but forever remembered.

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