Clayton L. Stein

Clayton L. Stein, 72, of Chillicothe, unexpectedly passed from this life on Tuesday, May 6, 2008 at his residence. He was born July 9, 1935 in Cincinnati, Ohio, the son of the late Clayton L. Sr., and Gwendolyn (Beeler) Stein. Clayton was raised in Xenia, Ohio and was a 1953 graduate of Xenia Central High School. He received his undergraduate degree from Ohio University in 1957 and his Master of Fine Arts degree in 1962. He was an educator for 30 years, beginning his career in Athens County and in the Chillicothe School System, teaching Speech, Drama and Theatre at Chillicothe High School as Head of the Theatre Department for 22 years, retiring in 1987. He also taught Speech and Theatre at Marietta College for several years. Clayton was a member and past officer of the Chillicothe Education Association and was a 2007 recipient of the Educator Emeritus Award. In his youth, Clayton was member of the Order of DeMolay and was a Senior DeMolay, recipient of the Legion of Merit and the DeMolay Cross of Honor... He had served as a DeMolay chapter advisor, was Past District Governor of the 11th DeMolay District and had served two terms as Chairman of the Ohio DeMolay Advisory Council. He was a member of Scioto Lodge #6, F&AM, Chillicothe York Rite Bodies, The Scottish Rite and the Royal Order of Scotland. His knowledge of, and his devotion to Freemasonry will be missed. Clayton was an accomplished magician and following his retirement from teaching, he performed as a professional magician, appearing in the United States, Hawaii, England and Scotland. He was a member of the International Brotherhood of Magicians, Ring 197 and The Magic Circle of London, England. Through his teaching, mentoring and performing, Clayton touched many lives. A gathering to celebrate his life will be held on Sunday, May 18, 2008 from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm at his residence, 380 Vine Street. The ceremony of the "Broken Wand" will be performed by the International Brotherhood of Magicians, RIng 179. Memorial contributions in his memory may be made to the Ross County Humane Society. The Fawcett Oliver Glass and Palmer Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.