John Samuel Clanton, 73, a native Huntsvillian, passed away Monday. John owned and operated Clanton Auto Parts and Engines and Commercial Sign & Banner prior to his retirement.

            He was preceded in death by his parents, Lester R. Clanton and Birdie Knowles Clanton and his sister Shirley Stephens. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Becky Clanton; daughter Rebecca Anno (Bob); son, Jarrett Clanton (TBD); granddaughter, Ashley Rebecca Little; bonus granddaughter, Amanda Ferguson (Matt); brothers, Robert Ronald Clanton (Becky) and Lester Eugene Clanton (Karen); sisters, Mary Grace Reny, Maxie Marie Stephens, and Della Frances Rumore; and numerous nieces and nephews.

            Visitation will be from 6 – 8 p.m. Friday at Laughlin Service Funeral Home.  The funeral service will be at 2:00 p.m. Saturday at Weatherly Heights Baptist Church with the Rev. Dr. Mike Calvert officiating.  A private burial will be held in Maple Hill Cemetery.

            In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a favorite charity.