Claybourne married Helen Marie Parrish on June 17, 1955, in Cuidad Acuna, Mexico. They have 4 children. Claybourne enlisted into the military, and they spent 21 years of their lives traveling the world as a military family. They primarily lived in the Southern United States, Germany, and Panama during his military career. Claybourne was a highly respected, dual-rated military pilot with the US Army. He served in the Vietnam war twice. He retired as Chief Warrant Officer III, in 1977.

Claybourne is survived by his four children, Boone, SueAnn, David, and Alex. He is also survived by grandchildren April and Wesley; Ron and Madison; Brigitte and Danielle; and Matthew. He was preceded in death by his wife Helen and grandson Booker. In addition to his grandchildren, he is survived by his great-grandchildren Coy, Sabrina, Hayes, and Tanner; Elena (Ellie); Lilly Rae and Leonardo (Leon). He also has a great-greatgrandson, Colt. He is also survived by his siblings: sister Lynn Overstreet Jonas, and brother Bo Overstreet. Claybourne and Helen had numerous friendships throughout the world. Many of these friendships were formed during their traveling days with the military; they were committed to keeping these lasting relationships throughout their lives. Many of these longstanding friendships were more than 60+ years. They were forever welcoming friends into their home; and enjoyed spending time with loved ones. Their loss will be a huge miss for all of us.

The two of them will have quite the welcoming committee on the other side of life. Amongst their various family members, they will be welcomed by their “5-couple social club.” Claybourne and Helen socialized with 4 other local couples over the past 15-20 years. These 4 other couples have passed away over the years, narrowing the social pathway for Claybourne and Helen. They will be thrilled to pick up where they all previously left off. Bottoms up, gang; we’re back together again!

There will be a Memorial (a Celebration of life, a Last Hoorah, a Final Farewell) for Claybourne and Helen on Saturday, November 9, 2024, at the Davenport Ranch. This event will include good food, refreshments, stories, photos, hugs, and probably some tears. You will also see some of those 60+ year friendships! The family asks that you please send an email asap to: davenportmemorial24@ gmail. com so they can get an estimated head count of those planning to attend. In lieu of email, you may call 512-289-0096. Additionally, the family asks that you please submit any stories and/or photos to this same email address as they are preparing a slide show for the event. Claybourne and Helen have a family plot at the Bandera Cemetery on the Kerrville Highway; this will be their final resting place.

The family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider donating to the (Bandera Meals on Wheels) Silver Sage at www.silversage.org or you can call (830)7964969. We, the family, thank this organization for putting eyes and a loving touch onto the lives of our parents over the past few years. Another available option is the Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association at VHAP.org.