James “Jim” Louis Clayton, beloved husband, father, grandfather, teacher, and coach, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on September 18, 2025, at the age of 69. Born on October 22, 1955, in Huntington, West Virginia, Jim dedicated his life to teaching, coaching, and mentoring others both in the classroom and on the basketball court.
Jim is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Anne; his daughter, Elizabeth; his son, Wes, and his wife Kayla; and his two cherished granddaughters, Vera and Heidi, who lovingly knew him as “Pop Pop.” He is also survived by his sisters, Catherine (Alan) Morrison and Mary Clayton. He will also be deeply missed by his faithful dogs and closest companions, Alfie and JJ, as well as countless students, athletes, friends, and colleagues whose lives were shaped by his encouragement and example. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Lee Roy Clayton, Jr. and Jane Sedinger Clayton.
Jim graduated from Huntington High School in 1974, where he excelled both on the baseball field and the basketball court. He went on to earn a degree in education from West Virginia Institute of Technology, preparing him for his lifelong career in teaching and coaching. While at Tech, he also played basketball for the Golden Bears, further fueling the passion for the game that would define much of his life.
Jim spent over 35 years as a classroom teacher with Cabell County Schools, serving at Huntington East High School, Huntington High School, and Cabell Midland High School. He coached at Huntington East for nearly a decade and later played a key role as an assistant coach in leading Huntington High School to three consecutive state championships. He inspired students and athletes alike with his passion, positivity, and wisdom—always striving to bring out the best in those around him.
In 1992, Jim founded Sports City U, the nation’s first private basketball academy, continuing to share his love of the game and of life. Jim also served as a national spokesperson and skills shooting coach for Nike, worked as a shooting consultant and coach for the NBA’s New Jersey (now Brooklyn) Nets and the Portland Trail Blazers, and was a John Maxwell Certified Leadership Coach and motivational speaker, inspiring athletes and audiences alike with his insights and leadership philosophies. Most recently, he reached a broader audience through his podcast, Shooting It Straight!, where he offered insights that extended well beyond basketball.
2 Timothy 4:7-8 says, “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness.” Jim Clayton fought that fight daily in his own unique and original way. He leaves behind a legacy that reaches beyond his family and inspires countless others today and beyond.
A visitation for family and friends will be held Friday September 26 from 5:00-9:00 pm at New Baptist Church, 610 28th St. in Huntington. A celebration of Jim’s life will be held at Christ Temple Church Saturday September 27 at 12:00 noon with Pastor Kevin Shull officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Huntington Cabell Wayne Animal Shelter or the Cabell Huntington Hospital Foundation.
Friends, former students, athletes, and all who were touched by Coach Clayton’s life are invited to share their memories and stories. Those who wish to do so may call (304) 691-0075 and leave a voicemail to be collected and cherished by the family.
Coach Clayton’s impact will continue through the love of his family, his friends, and the countless students and athletes whose lives he touched. His voice, laughter, and signature encouragement—“BAM, Son!”— asking us all to Believe bigger, Achieve louder, and Motivate stronger.