Charles "Keve" McIver Clayton, Jr.

“The fishermen know that the sea is dangerous and the storm is terrible, but they have never found these dangers sufficient reason for remaining ashore.” – Vincent Van Gogh

Charles McIver “Keve” Clayton, Jr., 64, passed away on Sunday, September 24.  A memorial service will be held at a later date.

For anyone who knew him, Keve was the epitome of a life well-lived.  He enjoyed many different hobbies, including hunting and shooting, but his first love was always the water.  From surfing to fishing to captaining a private fishing boat, Keve spent his most precious times on the water.  One of his greatest accomplishments was winning the Big Rock Tournament in Morehead City in 1998.  When his health began to limit his adventures, Keve still clung to his first love, transitioning that love into the form of paintings.  He painted beautiful scenes of the memories he created on the water, bringing his love of the ocean to others.

Keve is survived by his brother, Jesse A. Clayton of Atlantic Beach; nephews, Reid Clayton and Mac Clayton, both of Raleigh; and friend, Sherry Howell of Wilson.

Keve was preceded in death by his parents, Charles M. Clayton and Catherine Anderson Clayton.

Keve always looked at life with a glass half-full perspective, often stating that he lived a full life and wouldn’t change a thing.  He will be dearly missed by many.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Big Rock Foundation, 710 Evans Street, Morehead City, NC 28557 or The Surfrider Foundation at www.surfrider.org/volunteer.

Condolences directed to Joyner’s Funeral Home and Crematory at www.joyners.net.