DeJay Claypoole

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of our loved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend DeJay Claypoole, 84, of Ford City. He was a lifelong resident of the area. He was born in Worthington to the late Oren and Sara (Mowry) Claypoole. He spent most of his life as a farmer. It was on the farm that he made his living and his home most of his life. He spent decades there raising his family and hundreds of dairy cattle. Long hours spent working the fields and running equipment, exemplified his strong work ethic. It was the same ethic he instilled in his family and will remain part of his legacy. His love for farming was only surpassed bye his love and dedication to his children and grandchildren. In his later years he could be seen cheering on his grandchildren at basketball and football games. His love and support of them will be treasured forever.

DeJay was active in the Armstrong Conservation District providing support and guidance whenever needed. DeJay enjoyed working on tractors and farm equipment till the end of his life. He was a great conversationalist. Just ask anyone brave enough to sit down beside him at one of his favorite restaurants,He enjoyed good food, good friends and could be frequently seen in many area restaurants, and some not so local. While his list of friends were long and he treasured them all. He especially enjoyed discussing farming or chasing a part with his lifelong friend Ralph, catching up on the local events (gossip) sitting in the barber chair that Mark had just for him, and what Sunday would be complete without a long drive to nowhere in particular after church with Ethel. DeJay proudly left an impression nearly everywhere he went. His memory will live on through memories made and hugs given. DeJay loved deeply and will be sorely missed. 

He was a member of the Franklin Union Baptist Church.

He is survived by his sister Janet (John) Ruszaj of Blasdell, NY; sister Marilyn (Larry) Strobel of Worthington; daughter Kimberly (Jason) Gerber of Mercer, PA; daughter Lisa (Tony) Saloum of Ford City; granddaughter Nicole (Zack) Steele of Slate Lick, PA; granddaughter Kaitlyn (Cary) Shearer of Kittanning; granddaughter Alexis (Tim) Seipt of Easton, PA; granddaughter Olivia Claypoole of Oldwick, NJ; great-grandchildren Addalie, Parker, and Everly Shearer; Delaney Steele; Rylee and Finley Seipt; numerous nieces and nephews.

DeJay was preceded in death by his parents; son Alex Claypoole; son James Cash; wife Anita Claypoole.

Friends will be received on Sunday October 12, 2025 at the Snyder-Crissman Funeral Home in Kittanning from 2:00 to 6:00 P.M. A funeral service will be held on Monday October 13, 2025 at the Franklin Union Baptist Church at 11:00 A.M. with Pastor Robert Hindman officiating Additional visitation will be held at the church from 10:00 A.M. until the time fo the service. Interment is in the Franklin Union Baptist Church Cemetery.

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