Margie Lou Clayton, 86, of Grinnell, died on January 14, 2025, at UnityPoint Grinnell Regional Medical Center, Grinnell, IA.

A funeral service is scheduled for 10:30 AM, Monday, January 20, 2025, at Smith Funeral Home, Grinnell, IA with burial to follow at Trinity Cemetery, Malcom, IA. A reception will be held at the Grinnell Elks following the burial. Visitation will be held 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Sunday, January 19, 2025, at Smith Funeral Home, Grinnell, IA. Family will greet friends at the visitation from 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM.

Margie was born November 11, 1938, in Leighton, Iowa, daughter of John and Anna Mae Roorda and one of 15 siblings. At a young age, Margie moved with her family to Montezuma, Iowa, where she graduated from Montezuma High School with the class of 1956. On December 8, 1956, she married Paul Clayton in Montezuma, and together they built a loving family with five children: Denny, Dan, Janet, Susie, and Deb.

Margie was a dedicated worker throughout her life. She worked as a waitress at the Long Horn in Grinnell while working in claims at Grinnell Mutual Reinsurance Company before retiring in 2000 after 30 years of employment. However, her most cherished role was that of wife, mother, and caregiver to her family.

Known for her hardworking nature, Margie was a role model to those around her. She adored her grandchildren and took great pride in staying involved in their lives and activities. She was a member of the Trinity Lutheran Church, Chester Royal Grange, and Lady Elks.

Margie had many passions that enriched her life. She enjoyed sewing, a skill she passed on to her daughters. She was an excellent cook and canned produce from her large garden. Margie also loved square dancing, playing cards, camping, and fishing.

Margie is survived by her children, Denny (Julie) Clayton, Dan Clayton, Janet Clayton, Susie Pickhardt (George Johnson), and Deb (Ron)Belcher; her grandchildren, Sara Clayton (Jerry Schroeder), Jacob (Shelby) Clayton, Jessica (Alexis) Orfanos, and Ashley (JD) Barnes; 7 great-grandchildren, and siblings Patricia Davis, Elmer (Delaine) Roorda, Virgil (Rosy) Roorda, Sharon (Frank) Fowler, Linda Mason, Lyle (Judy) Roorda, and Bruce (Judi) Roorda. She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Anna Mae; her husband, Paul; siblings, Harlan Roorda, Joyce Stone, Barb Foster, Loren Roorda, Marvin Roorda, Marilyn Cook, and Norman Roorda; son-in-law, Lowell Pickhardt; and daughters-in-law, Theresa Clayton and Carol Clayton.

If desired, memorial contributions may be designated to Margie Clayton Memorial Fund for future benefit to local organizations. Memorials may be mailed in care of Smith Funeral Home, PO Box 368, Grinnell, IA 50112. Memories and condolences may be shared with Margie's family online at www.smithfh.com.