James William "Bill" Clanton of Salina, Kansas, passed away, Friday, January 24th, 2025.Bill was born in Salina, Kansas on November 18, 1933, to Edith Maude (Allison) and James Everette Clanton.
After graduating high school, he worked as a mechanic at Long McArthur. During that time, he proudly served in the United States Army for two years. He returned to Long McArthur, while still serving in the Army Reserves. After 28 years, he started Bill’s Truck and Auto Repair. He continued to work until he was 87 years old. With his last wrecker call when he was 88.
Bill began his racing career in 1999 and raced cruisers and hobby stock. He thought his racing career ended after he broke his neck while racing and after he recovered, he resumed racing for a couple more races. But still supported his grandson, Shannon in the modified class. Survivors include three daughters, Marva Weller (Doug), of Salina, Kansas; Debi Yockey (Todd Nelson), of Salina, Kansas; and Linda Grob (Don), of Salina, Kansas; former wife, Melba Clanton, of Salina, Kansas.He is also survived by grandchildren, Shayna Barbee (Rob), Michael Weller (Joycelyn), John Yockey, Rashell Yockey (Mike Jaklevic), Thomas Yockey (Adrianna), Shannon Johnson (Sarah), Aric Grob (Kennidi); and 15 great grandchildren; many other family members.
Bill is preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Margarette Tyler and Venita Aldridge; 2 nieces; and 1 nephew.Family will receive friends from 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm, Friday, January 31st, at Carlson-Geisendorf Funeral Home.A funeral service will be held at 10:00 am, Saturday, February 1st, 2025 at First Southern Baptist Church in Salina, Kansas with Dr. Tyler Ball officiating.Burial will follow at Highland Cemetery in Minneapolis, Kansas.In lieu of flowers, donations may be written to Debi Yockey for a night to honor Bill at Salina Speedway. To send online condolences to the family, visit the funeral home website at www.carlsonfh.net, or on the funeral home Facebook page.