Mary E. Hudek-Clayton, of Pocahontas, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on Sunday, April 19, 2026, in Yukon, Oklahoma.

Mary was born Mary Elizabeth Prichard on a farm in rural Fontanelle, Iowa, to Fred Jared Prichard and Helen Elizabeth Bobo Prichard. She was the third of six children in a close-knit family. Her father worked as a welder and blacksmith, while her mother was both an artist and a teacher—talents and values that deeply shaped Mary's life. She attended Washington No. 5 country school in rural Adair County through the eighth grade and graduated from Bridgewater High School in 1957. She held a deep love and pride for her Avondale church community. Mary continued her education at Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville, Missouri, graduating in 1961. While working summers at Sandbar Beach in Spirit Lake, Iowa, Mary met Ralph Hudek. The couple married on July 15, 1961, and were blessed with three children. They made their home on the Hudek family farm near Pocahontas, Iowa. That same fall, Mary began her teaching career, dedicating many years to education. She taught English, speech, drama, and physical education for girls, and was actively involved in GED programs and directing school plays.

Mary had a servant's heart and was often called upon to lead and support community and charitable organizations. She helped organize Christian women's luncheons, blood drives, and served as a welcoming presence at church. She was a member of T.T.T., contributed to Centennial Bonnets, and participated in Fire Bells, among many other activities. One of her greatest joys was leading Bible study, a role she cherished deeply, as her faith and her Bible were central to her life.

In 2004, Mary lost her beloved husband Ralph. The following year, she married Clifford Clayton of Estherville, Iowa, and together they shared 20 years of companionship and service. In later years, Mary and Clifford were active in Rotary International, where Mary was honored as a Paul Harris Fellow.

Mary was a devoted supporter of the Pocahontas community, always cheering on its people and its spirit. She was a faithful member of Resurrection of Our Lord Catholic Church, and her faith was the foundation of her life.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Fred and Helen Prichard; her first husband, Ralph Hudek Jr.; and her sister, Patty Cavanaugh.

She is survived by her loving husband, Clifford Clayton; her children, Linda (Todd) Brugger, Bill (Louise) Hudek, and Amy (Mike) Terry; and her grandchildren, Laura (Jackson), David, and Katie. She is also survived by her stepchildren: Lisa (David) Nitchals, Katie (Art) Lehman, Tom (Linda) Clayton, Carolyn (Pat) Sheda, Mary Kerr, Steve (Sandy) Clayton, and Brian (Penny) Clayton; along with 17 step-grandchildren, 34 step-great-grandchildren and 2 step-great-great-grandchildren; siblings, Paul (Melanie) Prichard, Joan Moore, Jay (Barbara) Prichard and Don (Stephanie) Prichard.

The family extends a heartfelt thank you to Amy Whiting, Clifford's granddaughter, and the Lehman and Queen families for their devoted care and support over the past year and a half.

Mary will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her generous spirit, her dedication to family and community, and the lasting impact she made on all who knew her.