Clayton A. Havier

Clayton Alexander Havier, age 81, of Taft, CA, passed away peacefully on November 1, 2024 surrounded by loved ones. Born on December 28, 1942 to Jose Alex Havier and Dottie Whisner, 

Clayton was known for being a free spirit, living life to the fullest and embracing every moment with passion and adventure. His sense of humor, loving heart, and talent for striking up a conversation with random strangers will leave a lasting impact on all who knew him.

 One of his earliest displays of determination was when, at age 12, his family moved from Los Angeles to Ohio. Missing his friends and hometown, young Clayton decided to hitchhike all the way back to Los Angeles—showing even then that when he set his mind to something, he got it done. This bold spirit carried him throughout his life, inspiring those around him to embrace every moment. 

Clayton proudly served in the United States Air Force. He then pursued a career in the restaurant business, mainly Pizza Hut. He started in Brownsville, TX and his endeavors led him to Taft, CA (as well as Porterville, CA) to run the Pizza Huts in these areas. His hard work in the Taft, CA Pizza Hut helped to take this business to a number 1 standing in the region. His passion for the casino, cooking, the Raiders, and oldies music was well known and brought joy to him and those around him. Clayton’s friends and family will remember him most for his sense of humor and his love for his family and friends.

 He is survived by his wife Linda Havier of 47 years, his son Kenneth and his spouse Misha (their children Jayson and Mialexie), his daughter Angela and her spouse Geoff (their children Joseph, Thomas, Timothy, and Ashlee), and his adopted daughter Rikki Frye and her spouse Lance (their children Epona and Damien). He also leaves behind his beloved children David, Vicki, Rita, Alex, Wendy and Joey as well as his sister Dorothy Friesland. He is preceded in death by his father Jose Havier, his mother Dorothy Whisner, and his daughter Anita Bowers.

A memorial service to celebrate Clayton’s life will be held to honor his memory and all friends and family are welcome to attend. It will be held on December 28th, 2024 at 2 p.m.   westside recreation hall in Taft. 500 Cascade Pl, Taft, CA 93268 

Clayton will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his memory be a source of comfort and inspiration to those who loved him