Shirley Ann Clayton (Beddingfield)

Shirley Ann Clayton (Beddingfield), 83, of White Rock, New Mexico, passed away peacefully on July 14, 2026.

Born on March 13, 1943, to Donald and Kathryn Beddingfield, Shirley lived a life defined by hard work, compassion, and an unwavering love for her family. She touched countless lives through her kindness, generous spirit, and caring heart. 

Shirley was an entrepreneur who proudly owned and operated the Bait Shop at Lake Sumner for several years. Later in life, she devoted herself to caring for others, working as a server and caregiver at Peachtree Village in Roswell, New Mexico, before providing private in-home care to families in White Rock. Whether serving customers, caring for residents, or helping someone in need, Shirley found joy in making others feel loved and cared for. 

In her retirement years, Shirley discovered a passion for hatching and raising bantam and other small chickens, taking great pride in caring for them. She also loved playing Bingo and was thrilled to win the coveted cover-all jackpot several times. Shirley enjoyed traveling whenever she had the opportunity, especially visiting her daughter, granddaughter, and great-grandchildren in Texas, where she treasured every moment spent making memories with them. Some of her greatest happiness also came from cheering on her grandson as he played baseball and competed in trap and skeet shooting events. She never missed a chance to support the people she loved. 

Another joy in Shirley's life was spending time in Los Alamos dog-sitting for her granddaughter. She adored the companionship of her granddogs and was always happy to lend a helping hand while enjoying time with her family. 

Shirley was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Charles Clayton; her cherished grandson, Coltin Hansel; her parents, Donald and Kathryn Beddingfield; her brothers, David Beddingfield and Charles Beddingfield; and her sister, Donna Bettis. 

She leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish her memory: her daughter, Denise and husband Kenny Hansel of White Rock, New Mexico, and grandson Kadin Hansel; her daughter, Diana and husband Mike Cones of Del Rio, Texas; her granddaughter, Lacey and husband Jake of Los Alamos, New Mexico; her granddaughter, Melissa Barboa and husband Cody of San Angelo, Texas; and her beloved great grandchildren, Trey, Isabel, and Emmitt. She is also survived by her sister, Sharon and Tony of Jacksonville, Illinois, and her brother, Kevin and wife Theresa of Jacksonville, Illinois, and sister-in-law Rosemary Beddingfield of Vergina Illinois, along with many extended family members and dear friends. 

Shirley will also be deeply missed by her faithful and beloved dog, Pixie, who brought her companionship and joy. 

Shirley will be remembered for her caring heart, her strong work ethic, her sense of humor, and the unconditional love she gave so freely to her family and friends. She had a special gift for caring for others, whether family, friends, or those she served throughout her career. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched and in the memories that will be treasured forever. 

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has offered prayers, love, and support during this difficult time.

The family of Shirley Clayton has entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the beautiful Espanola Valley.  505-747-7477