“Max Joseph Clayton, R.N. sadly left us on July 17, 2024 encircled by so much love from family and friends,” his family wrote in a tribute. He was 34.

“Max was born in December 1990 to parents Anita and Samuel Clayton,” the tribute went on. “Even though he was first born he was only second favorite to his sister, Hali (I'm just kidding, Max, we all know you were the favorite and for good reason).

“You could always count on Max for some comic relief even in the darkest of situations. Max overcame so many struggles growing up, but you would never know. Max went out of his way to care for others no matter what he was going through; he always put everyone before himself.

“Max was destined for a career helping others and in 2017 he graduated from Maria College as a registered nurse. Max impacted so many lives through his nursing career, not only patients but the staff who became like family (We love you D5E).

“Max had a beautiful heart, a caring, generous soul, and an incredible mind; he touched everyone he met and left a small part of himself with you, whether it was his smile, crazy sense of humor, or just his presence assuring you it would be fine.

“For those of you who had the privilege of knowing Max, you will understand. Max’s two little squirrels, Cora and Hattie, became the focus of his life. He was so proud to be their uncle; never missed an event from little gym graduations, to Halloween parties even when he was struggling through chemo, or his favorite, dancing with his girls in a tutu.

“He always showed up for us and for everyone. Cora and Hattie are blessed to have known him and his impact will leave a lasting impression for all their life, and they adored him. He was the best uncle, and helped us in ways he will never know.

“The world feels empty without him, but we know that the legacy he leaves behind will touch many more lives. We ask that you keep Max's beautiful spirit alive by sharing the gifts he gave you.

“To honor Max, please consider making a donation to the Max Clayton RN Scholarship fund at Maria College. Each year a nursing student who portrays the exemplary qualities of Max will be awarded with this scholarship. It is our hope to help students become the exceptional nurses this world needs, just like Max. This is the link to the scholarship fund: Https://mariacollege.edu/max-clayton.”