In remembrance of Minister Clayton Gartrell, who was born in Queens, New York on November 26, 1957 and peacefully departed this life on December 9, 2023.

Minister Clayton Gartrell graduated from Bloomfield High in NJ. He retired from the Industries of the Blind Solutions in Winston-Salem, NC. He rejoined the workforce as a Purchasing Coordinator at Industries for the Blind in Greensboro, NC.

Minister Gartrell's impact reached beyond his family circle and extended to his country. He served honorably in the United States Army and retired as a First Sergeant. He continued to embody a spirit of service as a member of Greater Emmanuel Word of Faith Christian Community, Inc. in Walkertown, NC; where he recently became an ordained minister. He touched many through his unwavering faith, especially in the latter years of his life. He was also an avid Philadelphia Eagles football fan.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Mable and James Gartrell as well as his sister Laverne Kelly.

He is survived by his loving wife, Minister Willette Gartrell of Advance, NC. He leaves a lasting legacy through his cherished children: Lakisia Gartrell of Texas, Mable Gartrell and Natasha Gartrell of Georgia, Katina Foster (L'Thomas) of North Carolina, and stepdaughter Lashaunda Hudson (James) of Georgia; his beloved grandchildren include: Tyrek Gartrell, Tre'von Smith, Sr, Na'Kiah Ireland, Khloe' Langston, Izabella Maher-Gartrell, Gavin Foster, Connor Maher, Raya Namias-Gartrell, Tatyana Hudson, and Jameison Hudson. Additionally, his great grandchildren include Tre'von Smith Jr and Ky'Aire Smith. Those who also will cherish his memory are his sister and brother, Michelle Kelly and Johnnie Kelly, and an aunt, Katherine Gartrell, all of New Jersey. A host of nieces, nephews, and cousins, will share in his memory.

Minister Clayton Gartrell's legacy resonates in the hearts of those who knew him and he will be forever remembered for his love, service, work ethic, and commitment to his faith. May his soul find eternal peace.


Homegoing Celebration will be at 12:00 PM, Tuesday, December 19, 2023 at Victory Baptist Church, Cooleemee, North Carolina with family visitation at 11:00 AM prior to service time. Interment will follow the service at the Salisbury National Cemetery. Public viewing will be held on Monday, December 18, 2023 from 1:00 PM- 5:00 PM at the funeral home.