02/16/2026
Many in our association will remember Glenn Clayton Sr. at various meetings and events.
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Glenn Roy Clayton, Sr. affectionately known to many as "The Bee Man," passed away after a long life marked by service, dedication, and deep ties to family and community.
Glenn was born on January 21, 1933, in Toms River, New Jersey, to John and Mildred Clayton, and grew up in Manasquan, New Jersey. In 1953, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving as a prison chaser and turnkey while stationed at Parris Island. After leaving active duty in 1955, he continued his service as a member of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve for an additional six years.
In 1956, Glenn began a distinguished civilian career as a structural firefighter at Lakehurst Naval Air Base. During the early 1960s, he transitioned to the crash crew, where his leadership and experience led to his promotion to Crash Captain in the late 1960s. He held this position with distinction until his retirement in 1983.
Following retirement, Glenn and his family relocated to Shipman, Virginia, bringing with him the beehives that would define his next chapter. He founded Hungry Hill Honey Farm, where he processed and sold honey, supplied beekeeping equipment, and provided pollination services to local orchards throughout Nelson County. Known widely as "The Bee Man," Glenn had a passion for honeybees and took great pride in educating and mentoring new beekeepers. His willingness to share knowledge and his love of the craft made him a trusted friend to many in the community.
Glenn was preceded in death by his wife of 73 and a half years, Joan, and by his son, Charles. He is survived by his son, Glenn Clayton Jr. and wife Louise; his grandsons, Christopher and Douglas; his granddaughter, Katie, and her husband Colin; and his great-grandsons, Eric and Nate. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews, each of whom held a special place in his heart.
A lifelong servant to his community, Glenn was a charter and life member of Point Pleasant Boro Company No. 2 in New Jersey, where he served in many roles, including Fire Chief from 1962 to 1963. He was a Master Mason with more than 60 years of service to the Grand Lodge of New Jersey, Durand Lodge No. 179, F. & A.M.
In Virginia, he was a life member and past board president of the Lovingston Volunteer Fire Department, a longtime member and past president of the Clifford Ruritan Club, and a devoted member of Trinity Episcopal Church in Arrington. He also served as a member of the Nelson County Chamber of Commerce and held numerous local and state elected or appointed positions throughout his life.
Glenn loved fishing, helping others, and giving back to the communities he called home. His legacy is one of service, generosity, and quiet leadership, and he will be remembered with deep respect and affection by all who knew him.
A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 19, 2026 at Trinity Episcopal Church with Rev. Donna Steckline officiating.
Interment will follow in the church cemetery.
Military rites will be accorded by the American Legion Post 16 of Lynchburg.
The family will receive friends on Wednesday, February 18, 2026 from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the Wells/Sheffield Funeral Chapel in Lovingston.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests that memorial contributions be made in Glenn’s memory to the Lovingston Volunteer Fire Department P.O. Box 6, Lovingston, Virginia 22949.
Family and friends may sign his virtual guestbook at www.WellsSheffield.com
Arrangements by Wells/Sheffield Funeral Chapel, Lovingston (434-263-4097).
