Clayton Eugene Hartman Jr

Clayton Eugene Hartman Jr., affectionately known as "Skip" during his youth, passed away peacefully on July 25, 2026, at the age of 80 in San Tan Valley, Arizona.

Clay was born on September 10, 1945, in Denver, Colorado, to Clayton and Charlotte Hartman. He was raised in Phoenix, Arizona, alongside his younger brother, Carl Hartman.

An adventurer at heart, Clay developed a love of flying while still a teenager, learning to fly both gliders and airplanes. As a Boy Scout, Clay developed a lifelong love of the outdoors. He also enjoyed sailing, fishing, shooting, and camping. He treasured the annual dove hunts he shared with his father, brother, sons, and lifelong friends.

Clay graduated from Arizona State University and spent 27 years with JCPenney, advancing through positions in sales, marketing, purchasing, and management. After leaving JCPenney, he continued serving others through various business management roles and as an insurance agent.

Clay was a devoted disciple of Jesus Christ. His greatest joy was sharing the gospel, most often as a Ward Mission Leader in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. While living in Flagstaff, he found profound purpose in serving as a bishop and cherished the people he was privileged to serve and had an unwavering testimony of the Atonement. Clay was a friend to all and sought to “succor the weak, lift up the hands which hang down, and strengthen the feeble knees.”

Clay is survived by his devoted wife of 50 years, Mary Hartman; their children, John Hartman, James Hartman, Thomas Hartman, Dave Hartman, Dan Hartman, Melissa Hartman, and Sam Hartman. He is also survived by his former wife Mary Duncan, and their children Lisa Hartman Laidlaw, Theresa Hartman, Kathleen Hartman, and his brother Carl Hartman, and 20 cherished grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, located at 33794 N. Gary Rd. Queen Creek, AZ 85142 . A private interment will follow at the Virden, New Mexico Cemetery at a later date. Clay's legacy of faith, service, and love will continue to bless his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him.