Obituary of David Leon Claywell

David Leon Claywell, 67 years, of Pensacola, Florida passed away on Thursday, July 4, 2024.

David was born on July 12, 1956 to Charles Claywell and Loice Pardue. He spent the first part of his life in Anderson, Indiana, where he graduated from Anderson High School. David proudly served our country in the US Navy as an Aviation Boatswain Mate. He was a highly decorated 1st class petty officer, and in 1979, saved the life of a helicopter pilot who had crashed his helicopter on the flight deck of the boat. David also spent time living in Bermuda, where he was one of the very first fire fighters who were able to drive the world's largest fire truck. 

David was preceded in death by his beloved wife Myrna Claywell; parents Charles Claywell and Loice Pardue; brother Paul Pardue; uncles Arthur Fish, Joe Fish, and John Fish; and aunt Sue Vandyn.

David is survived by his daughter Dawn (Randy) Badeaux; son James Claywell; granddaughters Lauryn Claywell, Aizly Claywell and Arianna Badeaux; grandson Kaleb Claywell; great-granddaughter Hazel Claywell; sister Robin Brown; brother Kip Pardue; aunt Jeanette Fish; uncle Jim Fish; cousins Ginger Pippin and Karen Rusk; as well as a host of other cherished cousins, nieces and nephews. 

David will be greatly missed, and we will keep his memory dear to our hearts. David was known for his love of camping and his love of traveling the U.S., but his love for others will leave a lasting impression on all he met. Though David was a gardener, he never indulged in the fruits of his labor. He instead tirelessly tended to his crops to ensure that his family and neighbors would never be without fresh okra, tomatoes, or pole beans. 

In lieu of flowers, family would graciously appreciate donations for funeral costs to Family-Funeral & Cremation, and to Saint Monica's Episcopal Church

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