Lynn Parks Clayton

Rev. Lynn Parks Clayton, beloved husband, father, grandfather, pastor, writer, mentor, and friend, entered the presence of his Lord and Savior after a lifetime devoted to ministry, service, and sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Lynn was born on August 20, 1940, in Seminole, Texas, and spent his childhood in West Texas surrounded by his parents and siblings. From an early age, he demonstrated a love for learning, service, and faith that would shape the course of his life.

After graduating from high school, Lynn pursued higher education at Baylor University, earning his undergraduate degree before continuing his theological studies at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. There he prepared for a calling that would define his life's work.

Lynn began his ministry serving as a youth pastor and later as College and Career Minister at First Baptist Church in Waco, Texas. He went on to pastor University Baptist Church in Wichita, Kansas, where he faithfully served his congregation and community. His gifts as a communicator and writer led him to the Kansas-Nebraska Baptist Convention, where he served as editor of the Baptist Digest. He later became editor of the Louisiana Baptist Message, a position he held with distinction for 28 years.

Throughout his career, Lynn received numerous awards recognizing his excellence in writing, teaching, and community involvement. He was widely respected for his thoughtful leadership, his commitment to truth, and his ability to inspire others through both the written and spoken word.

In 2005, Lynn answered a new call to ministry and became pastor of New Life Baptist Church in DeRidder, Louisiana. He faithfully shepherded the congregation until his retirement in 2017. Even in retirement, his influence continued through the lives he touched, the lessons he taught, and the faith he modeled.

Lynn's commitment to service extended beyond the church. He was an active member of the Alexandria Rotary Club and proudly served as its president in the early 2000s. Whether through ministry, civic involvement, or personal encouragement, Lynn dedicated his life to helping others.

Outside of his professional calling, Lynn found great joy in God's creation. He especially loved deer and elk hunting, bass fishing on Toledo Bend Reservoir, and trout fishing along the Rio Grande. Among all the places he traveled, Creede, Colorado, held a special place in his heart. He also cherished leading groups to the Holy Land, serving as a tour guide and helping others experience the places where biblical history unfolded. Through many of life's adventures, as well as the quiet moments at home, he was accompanied by his faithful canine companion, Lucie. Her loyal presence brought him comfort, companionship, and joy, and the special bond they shared was evident to all who knew them.

Above all else, Lynn treasured his family. He is survived by his loving wife, Leah Rush Clayton; his sister, Judy Clayton Wileman of Manhattan, Kansas; his son, Ron Clayton of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; his daughter, Stephanie Crawford of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Stuart and Tegan Nolan of Covington, Louisiana; and Maggie and Chad Sharbono of Katy, Texas.

He was a proud grandfather to Nelson Parks Clayton, Jane Elsie Crawford, Mary Clayton Crawford, Connor Nolan, Henry Nolan, Avery Nolan, Titus Clemens, Molly Sharbono, and Meredith Sharbono, each of whom brought him immeasurable joy and pride.

Lynn was preceded in death by his father, Roy M. Clayton; his mother, Ruth Book Clayton; and his brother, Carroll Paul Clayton.

Lynn spent his life pointing others to Christ through ministry, prayer, teaching, writing, and personal example. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, the churches he served, the words he shared, and the family he loved. Though he will be deeply missed, his family and friends find comfort in the promise of eternal life and in knowing that he has heard the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant."

Visitation will be held Monday, November 9, 2026, at 12:00 PM until the time of service at 2:00 PM at New Life Baptist Church in DeRidder, LA. Pastor George Lee Glass will officiate the service.

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."

2 Timothy 4:7

May his memory be a blessing, and may his life continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him.