Clinton Stanton, Sr.

January 29, 1930 - July 12, 2019

The East Palo Alto community has been a part of the life journey of Clinton Stanton, Sr. for 53 years. His life of 89 years was built on the three pillars: Faith, Family and Service.

Clinton Stanton was born on Wednesday, January 29, 1930 in Bessemer Alabama to Willie and Annie Belle Stanton. Clinton was the second of two children. Willie Jr. was raised by their grandmother but the two remained very close even though they lived in different homes. Clinton’s mother re-married when he was 10 years old to Everett G. Nelson. Mr. Everett G. was a provider, mentor and father to him. His mother poured her life into raising her son and getting him out of Alabama during the Civil Rights era.

Clinton graduated from Dunbar High School in 1948 and left Alabama in 1950 to join the Army. After Basic Training in Fort Knox Kentucky, Clinton continued his military career by joining the 82nd Airborne Division from 1950 to 1953 where he earned his wings as a Paratrooper. Upon receiving an honorable discharge from the Army, Clinton returned to Alabama for a short time working at Atlanta Life Insurance as a special agent. Clinton moved to the Detroit in May of 1953. He worked at the Cunningham Drug Store until gaining employment in the auto industry at Chrysler, followed by the Cadillac division of General Motors.

Clinton Stanton met and married Beverly Ann Turner in Detroit Michigan on June 27, 1954. Sixty-five years of marriage produced four children, two sons in law, seven grandchildren and twelve great grandchildren. Marrying Beverly, who lovingly called him "Stan" changed his life and gave him a new perspective on family values. Clinton learned and reflected the hard work ethic personified by his mother, stepfather and In-Laws Mr. & Mrs. Turner.

Clinton Sr. knew the importance of education to support and care of his family. With a 2-year old daughter and one on the way, Clinton worked days and attended night school to complete his Electronics Certification in January of 1958 - the same month his second daughter was born. Clinton accepted a job in November 1958 as a Missile Mechanic Electronics Engineer at General Dynamics in San Diego California. He was promoted to a Senior Calibration Technician and later accepted a position as Field Engineer at NASA in Houston Texas. Clinton finished his career at Varian in Palo Alto, California as a Quality Engineer retiring in 1985. As the only African American at most of his workplaces, Clinton Sr. advocated for fair and equal treatment and worked hard to be known and respected as the best in his field. After retirement – Clinton Sr. spent his time working in the church, perfecting his photography and preparing Taxes for Seniors in the community. Clinton known by his friends and family as Stan, never shied away from a good game of dominos, cards or bowling. He was the master game player.

Beverly and Clinton moved to the Bay Area in 1966, first to Menlo Park then to East Palo Alto. Mr. Stanton loved this community and always sought to actively participate in making it the best place to live! He served on the East Palo Alto City Planning Commission for five years, the Personnel Commission for three years, chaired the Criminal Justice Committee for three years, and served on the Board of Directors of OICW. As a father, Mr. Stanton was a constant presence and active participant within the school district. He and his wife Beverly were as a part of the parent committee for school integration. Mr. Stanton required hard work and accountability from his children and the teachers that taught them.

Clinton Stanton joined St. John Baptist Church after his son Clinton Jr. was baptized under the leadership of the late Rev. Branch. His four children and five of his grandchildren that were all baptized at St John. Clinton Stanton Sr. loved to serve! His service at St. John started as the Junior Laymen's Director for four years and Sunday School Teacher in the Youth Department.

In 1983, Brother Stanton was ordained as a Deacon. In 1986, Deacon and Deaconess Stanton were one of the 9 guarantors who put up their homes as collateral to enable the church to build a social Hall under the leadership of Dr. Robert L. Fairley. Deacon Stanton was voted Chairman of the Deacon Board under the leadership of Rev. Sumner and was on the pulpit selection committee when Rev. Williams was called as the current Pastor St John Baptist Church. Deacon Stanton continued to serve as Sunday School teacher of "Adult Class 4" for over 40 years and was the Senior Deacon of St John's Deacon Board.

In February 2019, he was honored in St John’s 2019 Black History Celebration for his faithful service and dedication to the work of the Lord.

Deacon Clinton Stanton Sr. joins those who have preceded him in death -- father Willie Sr., mother Annie Nelson, stepfather Everett G Nelson, siblings Willie Jr., Roosevelt and Laura, and aunt Carolyn Harris.

Deacon Clinton Stanton Sr. leaves his wife Beverly Ann Stanton, his children (Stanetta & husband Lonnie Crawford, Pamala & husband Gary Simpson, Clinton Stanton Jr. and Felicia Anderson), seven grandchildren, twelve great grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews and cousins throughout the country and many friends.

His strong faith and love for his Savior Jesus Christ has carried him through life. His family has been his greatest blessing, and Service to his community, church and friends have filled his life with purpose and joy. Clinton’s hope is to be remembered as being firm but fair!

Favorite Scriptures: Romans 8:28 “For we know that all things work together for those that love the Lord.” Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” Favorite sayings: “Don’t say too much, then you won’t have to take much back.” “Make your garment according to your cloth,” “A penny saved is a penny earned. If you have 15 cents save a dime.” Lesson in life: “Anything worth having is worth working for.” In every phase of his life, you will notice God Directing his Path. Servant, Husband, Father, Mentor, Friend -- Now Clinton rests in His Savior’s Love and Care! --- Cards and condolences: Mrs. Beverly Stanton & Family 1152 Westminster Ave East Palo Alto CA 94303

Pamala & Gary Simpson 45988 Omega Drive Fremont California 94539

Services for Clinton Stanton Sr. - a devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle and mentor to many but most of all a man of God! His celebration of life services will be held as follows: