William “Bill” Clayton Clem, 96, passed away peacefully on the morning of August 18, 2026 in Orlando, Florida.

Born April 6, 1930 in Cisne, Illinois, Bill was the first child of Holland George Clem and Helen “Sally” Estelle Myers Clem. He served in the US Army and later graduated from Southern Illinois University. Bill built a successful career with IBM Corporation where he was recognized as a top salesman for many years.

Bill spent most of his life in Windermere, Florida. He enjoyed playing tennis, golf, sailing, and home renovation projects, but his true passion was reading. Possessed of an enduring curiosity, and a thirst for knowledge, he was seldom without a book in hand. Bill, and his beloved wife Pat, traveled extensively throughout the United States and Europe. Of all their interests and destinations, Bill held a special affection for all things French.

Known as the life of the party, Bill will be remembered for his warmth, enthusiasm and exceptional gift for storytelling.

Bill was predeceased by his wife of 35 years, Patricia “Pat” (Lenzen/Nix) Clem, his brothers David Holland Clem and Joseph Philip Clem and his daughter, Nancy Ann Johnson.

He is survived by children, Holland Clem, Paul Clem, Dan Johnson, Elizabeth Haynes, and Robert Nix. He is also survived and adored by his grandchildren Jennifer Vocks, Jessica Naumann, Cody Haynes, and Lindsey Haynes and great-grandchildren Zakk, Max, Ben, Abi, Bel, AC, Cash, Cruz and Cole. He is also fondly remembered by his nieces and nephews, Jennifer Pierce, David Clem, John Clem, Joey Clem, Casie Schmidt, Jeremy Clem, and James Clem.

A small private service to remember Bill will be held in Winter Park, Florida.