David Elwin Clayson, a devoted agriculturalist, former school psychologist, and steadfast community leader, passed away peacefully on March 8, 2026, surrounded by his family. He was 77 years old. A man of deep agrarian roots and profound intellectual curiosity, Clayson leaves behind a multifaceted legacy defined by his lifelong dedication to the land, local education, and spiritual service in the Firth, Idaho community.
Early Life & Education
Born on July 1, 1948, in Shelley, Idaho, to Elwin (“Whitey”) and Darlene Duce Clayson, David was raised in eastern Idaho with a deep appreciation for hard work and faith. He received his foundational education locally, graduating from Firth High School. His academic and personal development continued at Ricks College, where he completed a year of studies before answering a call to serve a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Great Lakes Mission.
Upon returning, Clayson pursued higher education with a focus on understanding and aiding others. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Brigham Young University (BYU). Driven by a commitment to student welfare and cognitive development, he furthered his academic credentials at Idaho State University, where he achieved a Master of Education and completed his certification as a School Psychologist.
Career Zenith & Contributions
Clayson’s professional journey was uniquely bifurcated, reflecting both his intellectual capabilities and his agrarian heritage. He began his career utilizing his specialized training as a school psychologist. For three years, he provided critical psychological and educational support to students, utilizing his expertise to foster emotional resilience and cognitive development within the school system.
Despite his success in academia, the pull of his heritage ultimately led him back to the fields of eastern Idaho. Clayson transitioned to full-time farming, a vocation he pursued for the remainder of his life. His approach to agriculture was characterized by the same meticulousness and stewardship he applied to education. Working the land was not merely a livelihood for Clayson; it was a testament to his deep-seated roots in the local ecosystem and a daily exercise in resilience, operational strategy, and an uncompromising work ethic.
Leadership & Affiliations
Clayson’s authoritative voice in the community was perhaps most visible in his civic and ecclesiastical leadership. Leveraging his background in educational psychology, he served as a dedicated member of the Firth School Board for an impressive 17 years. During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in shaping district policies, advocating for student resources, and ensuring the strategic growth of local schools. His dual perspective as a former educator and a local agricultural businessman made him an invaluable asset to the board’s governance.
Equally significant was his lifelong affiliation with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Clayson was entrusted with numerous high-level leadership capacities, serving as a Bishop and a Stake President. In these roles, he provided spiritual, administrative, and pastoral guidance to hundreds of congregants. His later years were marked by dedicated service as a temple ordinance worker and temple sealer, positions of profound trust and reverence within his faith community.
Legacy & Impact
Remembered affectionately by those who knew him as “a giant packaged in a miniature-sized body,” David Elwin Clayson’s true stature was measured by his humility, integrity, and genuine love for others. His life was a masterclass in servant leadership, seamlessly bridging the worlds of agriculture, education, and ministry to uplift the Firth community.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Eris Clayson, and their six children: Trishann (Jared) Russell, Brent (Maddie) Clayson, Daniel (Jill) Clayson, Cammie (Scott) Sauer, Candie (Brandan) Madsen, and Nathan (Brooke) Clayson. His legacy of faith and service will be carried forward by his 27 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and his seven siblings: Nolan, Dennis, Gaylen, Melanie, Janeen, Connie, and Kaylene. He was preceded in death by his parents, an infant sister, and four grandchildren.
Funeral services to honor his life and contributions will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at the Firth Ward Chapel. Following visitation periods at Nalder Funeral Home and the church, he will be laid to rest in the Firth Cemetery—returning to the very soil he so faithfully cultivated throughout his remarkable life.