Clay English

FARMINGTON – Byron Clayborne English of Farmington, passed away on January 2, 2026 at St. Joe Manor in Bonne Terre. He was born August 14, 1943 in St. Louis, Missouri to the late William Waller English and Daphne Lee (Campbell) English. In addition to his parents he was predeceased by one brother, Barry Davis English.

"Clay", who most knew him by, grew up on farms in Greenville and Jerseyville, Illinois. He graduated from Jerseyville High School in 1961 and went on to college at SIUE where he received his bachelors and masters degree. Subsequently, he received a PhD in Psychology from St. Louis University. As part of his career he was a certified forensic examiner for the State of Missouri. He also taught at Central Methodist University and Mineral Area College where he wrote the counseling program. Clay worked for Southeast Missouri Mental Health where he retired after more than 30 years of employment as a psychologist. His true passion in life was farming his 165 acre farm. Over the years Clay, who was a black belt in Taekwondo, taught at Baker's Karate Academy. He enjoyed riding motorcycles, field archery, coin collecting and building HO model trains. His family will remember his unwavering kindness and generosity to others.

He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Geraldine (Koenig) English; his beloved son and his wife, Byron "Chris" (Samantha) English; four grandchildren, Courtney (Tyler) Nelson, Abbigail English, Byron "Cody" (Chloe) English, and Jacob (Halie) English; 4 great grandchildren, Liam, Colt, Eli and Byron "Cash"; and many extended family members and friends.

There will be a graveside service at Parkview Cemetery on Friday, January 9, 2026 at 1:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials are requested in Clay's name to St. Jude Children's Hospital in care of the funeral home. Share your memories and condolences at cozeanfuneralhome.com.