Clayton Rudolph Spears, 84, died peacefully at home in Clinton, Monday August 21.

He is the son of Lester and Hattie Mae Spears. Rudolph was born December 21, 1938 in the Linwood community near Philadelphia, MS. He lived most of his life in Meridian, MS.

He is a retired Senior Master Sergeant of the 186 Air Refueling Wing of the Mississippi Air National Guard.  He worked many years at Dement Printing Company and retired from McCain Pipeline in Meridian.

He was a member of State Boulevard Baptist Church in Meridian for many years where he served as a Deacon.  After State Boulevard relocated he became a founding member of Faith Baptist Church.  Upon moving to Clinton he joined Morrison Heights Baptist Church.

Rudolph was an avid sports fan enjoying football, baseball and golf.  He could be found at anytime keeping up with the Ole Miss Rebels and the Atlanta Braves.  He was a Mason and served on the board of the Magnolia Cemetery in Meridian.

He is preceded in death by his parents, sisters Agatha Wooten, Dorothy Kirby, Shirley Whitehead, brothers Paul and Willard Spears.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years Martha Faye of Clinton, Mississippi, sons Randall (Beth) of Lafayette, Louisiana and Richie (Stacey) of Clinton, Mississippi. Grandsons Dillon(Richie), Andrew(Randall),and Ryan(Richie).  Sister Rachel Walton of Homewood, Alabama and brother Billy Spears (Patsy) of Carthage, Mississippi, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Graveside services with full military honors will be held at the Mississippi Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Newton Mississippi, Thursday, August 24 at 11:00 A.M. The service will be conducted by Dr. Kevin Jones, Pastor First Baptist Richland.

The family would like to extend sincere thanks to his caregivers who faithfully cared for him and the many friends who offered support and prayers throughout this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers please consider a memorial gift to the Alzheimer's Association or St. Jude's Children's Hospital.