Annette Clayton

Annette Clayton was born on April 4, 1966, to Gilbert and Adelina Holguin in Belvedere, California. She was the second of three sisters and grew up in Monterey Park, California. Summers were often spent in El Paso, Texas, where she created cherished memories staying with her Tio Johnny and Tia Fina—where she lovingly considered her second home. Annette delighted in the time spent with her extended family, savoring traditional foods that reminded her of her roots, and spending time with all her cousins.

Annette earned her bachelor’s degree from Cal State Long Beach and later discovered her life's work advocating for mental health. Diagnosed with bipolar mood disorder as a young girl, Annette never let her diagnosis define her. Instead, she became a passionate voice for those living with mental illness. She was actively involved in NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) and DBSA (Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance). For 19 years, she served as a Wellness and Recovery Coordinator at Pacific Clinics, where she empowered others by sharing her own journey and championed efforts to break the stigma surrounding mental health.

Annette met the love of her life, Curt, at a concert in the park—a moment she loved to recount. Their first date, filled with his family members in tow, left her wondering if it was a test—but one she hoped she would pass, because she knew he was special. Their love story blossomed, and they were later married in a beautiful park ceremony, surrounded by those dearest to them.

Annette had a gift for friendship and connected deeply with people wherever she went, whether at the gym, the Red Cross where she volunteered, or during appointments preparing for her transplant. Her kindness and openness left a lasting impression on everyone she encountered.

She found great joy in life’s simple pleasures: dining out with Curt, especially if there was live music, going shopping and playing backgammon with her sister-in-law Carlyn, or meeting her sisters for breakfast. She loved celebrations and family gatherings, especially when she could be with her beloved nephews, nieces, and their children.

Annette had a deep faith in God and found comfort in prayer and fellowship at Rushing Wind Church and Curt’s constant care and love. She often said that a perfect day would be one spent at the beach, hand in hand with Curt, under a warm, sunny sky.

Annette’s life was a testament to resilience, faith, and love. She will be remembered for her radiant spirit, her advocacy, and her unwavering devotion to her family and faith.

Annette passed away peacefully on the evening of April 24, 2025, surrounded by family and friends. In her final act of generosity, she gave the gift of life and vision to others through organ and tissue donation.

Annette is survived by her beloved husband of 10 years, Curt Clayton. She is also survived by her sisters, Elizabeth, husband Victor and Yvonne, husband Sergio; sister-in-law Carlyn; brother-in-law Chet and Ross, wife Teri; nephews Dominic, wife Lauren, Paul, wife Vanessa, Anthony, wife Krystal, Chaz, girlfriend Kim; Derek wife Allison, Kyle, Hunter; nieces Jamie and Kiersten, husband Peter; and great-nieces and nephews Ember, Ava, Lois, Olive, Aliyah, Iris, Ezekiel, Kiké, Joaquin, Noah, Elias, Braxton, Caleb, and her goddaughter Lucy.

Join us in celebrating Annette’s life by sharing your memories, your laughter, and the moments when she made you smile. Her legacy of love, compassion, and strength will continue to live on in all who were blessed to know her.