Clayton Kynard, Jr.

Clayton Kynard Jr., age 86, passed away on December 16, 2025. He was born on March 18, 1939, in Marion, Alabama, to the union of Clayton Sr. and Leola Kynard (Strong). He was the oldest child and carried that role with quiet strength and responsibility throughout his life.

In 1944, Clayton relocated to Toledo, Ohio and joined the Mt Zion Missionary Baptist Church. His life was defined by perseverance, hard work, and a deep love for family. He was employed by Doehler-Jarvis before retiring and later began a second career with Medical Mutual of Ohio (Securitas Security Services USA), remaining active and engaged.

Clayton enjoyed learning, politics, dancing, and living life to the fullest. A lifelong Cleveland baseball fan, he dreamed of visiting every Major League Baseball park. Although he had no sons, he was deeply honored when his grandson, Clayton Kynard-Smith, was named after him, ensuring his name and legacy would live on. Though reserved at first, Clayton was the life of the party among those he loved, known for his infectious humor and unforgettable laugh. Although his health declined in recent years, his love for family never wavered.

He SHOWED UP, whenever he was needed and loved each of his daughters in his own unique way.

His Legacy will live on through the family he cherished and the life he lived, fully and on his own terms. His grandchildren shared many of his attributes (James, Yanna and Sydney a love for music, Maya, Imani and Clayton – passion for learning, Kai his physical twin).

He is survived by his three loving daughters: Tanya M. Kynard, Dawn R. Kynard, and Syrece R. Kynard; his grandchildren: James Jefferson II, Maya Ellis (Desmond), Imani Hinton (Destyn), Aiyanna Lee, Clayton Kynard Smith, Sydney Jackson, and Ahkai Davis; his only brother, Wylie Kynard (Willa) of Washington, D.C.; his nieces and nephew, Regina Kynard Booker, Crystal Kynard Mackall (Keith), and Wylie Jermaine Kynard; and a host of other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clayton Sr. and Leola Kynard (Strong), and his niece and nephew, Krystal JeNae and Clayton James -Allen Mackall.

Wake services will be held Monday, December 29, at 12:00 p.m., with funeral services immediately following at 1:00 p.m., City of Zion, the Mount Zion Church (COZ – 701 Vance St.) Bishop Talmadge J. Thomas will officiate. Interment will follow at Historic Woodlawn Cemetery. Newcomer Funeral Home, Toledo, Ohio, is entrusted with directing services.