Donald M. Clanton

Donald M. Clanton, 80, of Senatobia, MS passed away Monday, May 20, 2024. He was born on May 29, 1943, to John and Blanche Clanton. Don graduated from Independence High School in 1961 as Valedictorian of his class. He went on to attend Northwest Mississippi Community College from 1961 to 1963. After graduating from NWCC, he attended The University of Mississippi obtaining a Bachelor of Physical Education with a minor in history. He then received his Master of School Administration in 1971. Don worked as a teacher, coach, and assistant principal at Coldwater High School. During his time as coach, Coldwater won the Chickasaw Conference triple crown in basketball, football, and baseball, and were state champions in baseball. Don always credited his talented players for making him look like a great coach. He continued his love for education by becoming a member of The North Mississippi Education Consortium.

Don was elected as superintendent of Tate County Schools and served from 1976-1987 and again from 1995-2000. He also served as mayor of Senatobia from 1989-1993 and two terms as alderman-at-large from 2009-2017. Don was an active member of the Senatobia Optimist Club, and president of the local lodge of the Woodmen of the World. He was also a member of The Civitan Club where he played Santa for 35 years. Don was also a part of the Tate County Jail Ministry. He was member of First Baptist Church Senatobia and devoted his time at Senatobia Arms Apartments, Providence Care Community, and Senatobia Healthcare and Rehab. Don was a referee at basketball games for many years. He was also an avid quail hunter.

He is survived by his wife, Shirley Clanton; daughters, Annette Carson (Michael), Audra Henson (Terry), and Cindy Jones (Brian); sister, Barbara Franklin (Harrell); grandchildren, Brik Waldrop (Alyssa), Tyler Waldrop, Cody Carson (Georgie), Lauren Carlini (Domenick), Leeah King (Jacob), and Olivia Saunders (Hunter) and great grandchildren, Ellie Waldrop, Ridley Anne Carlini, and Adeline Carlini. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Blanche Clanton; sister, Johnnie Lynn Pope and brother, Jimmy Clanton.

Memorials may be sent to the Don Clanton Endowed Scholarship. http://northwestms.edu/foundation

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