Fred Edward Clanton Jr.

Fred Edward Clanton Jr., 83, of Phoenix, AZ, passed away from heart failure December 24, 2025, at Abrazo Central Hospital. Fred was born in Nashville, Tennessee to Mary (Arnold) and Fred Clanton Sr.. He later made Phoenix his home for 60 years and built a life in friendship and community. A devoted Catholic and Navy veteran who served on the USS Independence (CVA - 62) as a lithographer. A fiercely independent man, Fred owned several contracting businesses ending his career with LinkII Signs.  His long-time friend Oscar, at Phoenix Printing, was a valued partner in business.   As a 40-year member of the Palo Verde Golf Club, Fred took pride in building their scoring program and planning the Men's Club annual banquet. He loved Italian food, football, backgammon  and was a true"trekkie."  Surviving Fred are two daughters and four grandchildren:  Theresa Ryan and her daughter Kimberly Marie, April (Scot) Ellis and their two boys Tyler and Dylan. He was preceded in death by his son, Steven Ryan, whom has a daughter Angelina Alexandria (Susan).  Fred was a beloved grandfather and loyal friend. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Phoenix Humane Society in honor of his buddies Shorty, Roxanne and Luna. His cremains are interred in the columbarium at Washington State Veterans Cemetary in Medical Lake,  WA. He will be sincerely missed. Rest in Peace, Dad.