James Odell Clawson Sr.

January 17, 1935 - August 23, 2020

James Odell Clawson Sr., dad was born to Olin and Ruby on January 17, 1935 in Perry County, AR. He learned to live off the land and while working at Arthur's Garage learned to repair everything. After graduation, dad moved to Illinois where he began his career with Ford Motor Company and developed a passion for horse racing and playing cards. Passions he shared with his wife of 50 years, Beverly Ann Strong. Together they had 3 children: James JR of Honolulu, HI, William Olin of Novi, MI and John Paul of Milford, MI. Dad is also survived by his 2 daughters, Brenda and Denise, both of Perryville, AR. After moving to Michigan, dad lived green, when green was just a color. We raised a garden, bees, rabbits, chickens, hunted, trapped, picked apples, peaches, pears, raspberries, strawberries; we ate all we could and canned the rest. We got our meat from a local farmer, cracked walnuts in winter for mom's homemade cookies. Holidays were over the top so, much love from mom and dad. Cherished memories and all. After retiring, mom and dad moved to Hot Springs, via Perry County, and loved every minute. So many friends from the KOA, BBQs, and Oaklawn, everywhere they went they made friends and lived life to the fullest. Dad packed 10 lifetimes into his 85 years passing on Sunday, August 23 at 4:20 pm. Dad will be remembered by all as a wonderful father, loving husband, and as a kind friend, willing to help anyone in need. Dad was laid to rest last Wednesday in the family plot less than a mile from his birthplace. Rest in peace dad, you will be missed!