Richard Stanley Clawson
Richard Stanley Clawson passed away peacefully on Sunday December 7, 2025 after a brief illness, surrounded by his wife, Judy Ellen Clark Clawson, and friends that he loved. He was a member in good standing of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, and attended the Exeter, California Ward.
Richard was born in Fresno, California on January 11, 1936, the oldest child of Willard George Clawson and Mary Louise Cole Clawson. He is survived by his wife, Judy Ellen Clark Clawson of Exeter, CA, his brother James Clawson of Prescott, AZ, his brother Gary Clawson of Arroyo Grande, CA, a son Steven Clawson of Fresno, CA, a grandson Shawn Clawson, a daughter April Clawson of Tulare, CA, granddaughters Faith Johnson and Grace Watson, a grandson Weston
Richard Clawson Watson, and 2 great-grandsons, Liam Kincaid and Ledger Johnson. Richard graduated from Reedley High School in Reedley, CA. He went on to attend Cal-Poly,San Luis Obispo, where he earned degrees in Agriculture and Horticulture, as well as a Masters
Degree in Education
After graduating from Cal-Poly, he taught Agriculture for 8 years at Exeter High School in Exeter, CA before pursuing other interests. Even though he left teachings as a profession, Richard enjoyed sharing with others his knowledge and skills. He was very interested in passing on important real-life applicable skills that would enrich people's lives. During his lifetime he was involved in construction, franchising, and financial services. He owned and operated
several different businesses, including the first Rug Doctor franchise in Tulare County, a motorcycle shop, and the Planing Mill Mall in downtown Visalia, CA.
One of his greatest passions was teaching friends and associates principles of financial management and successful wealth accumulation.
Richard's other interests included painting, dancing and flying. He built 3 different airplanes for his own use and enjoyment, and counted his fellow pilots as some of his best friends. At one time he held the world record for the highest altitude ultralite flight. Richard met the love of his life, Judy Ellen Clark, who he lovingly called "Judy Belle", at a community dance. She glided into his life, he swept her off her feet, and they waltzed off together.
They were married for time and eternity in the Fresno Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, and they expect to live together happily ever after.
A memorial service will be held on Monday December 15 3pm at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 601 N "B" St, Exeter, Ca 93221.