James N. Clanton

James N. Clanton “Jim,” 89, of Manheim, passed away peacefully on February 7, 2026. Born on October 21, 1936, in Chester County, PA, he was the son of the late Clarence and Sophie Clanton.

Jim graduated from Unionville High School and attended college before pursuing work in animal and disease transmission research in Central America, where he trapped and studied wildlife. He later worked at National Foam, where he was involved in the production of flame-extinguishing foam used in the airline industry. He also worked part time for the Hercules Chemical Company, caring for plants that were treated with fertilizer chemicals as part of testing processes. Jim went on to serve for many years as a food inspector with the USDA before taking a well-earned early retirement.

As a young man, Jim raised prize chickens and participated in the national “Chicken of Tomorrow” contest, which led to a visit to the White House, where he met President Dwight D. Eisenhower.

Jim had a lifelong love of Corvettes and was an active member of a Corvette club. He was also a licensed gun dealer and an avid firearms enthusiast. One of his proudest discoveries was learning he was related to the Clinton’s from the famous shoot out at the OK Corral; he made several memorable trips to Tombstone following that discovery.

He is survived by his son, Richard Clanton, husband of Beverly; his daughter, Sharon Clanton; his grandchildren, Josh Imhoff, husband of Erin; Brianna Benson, wife of Jeff; and Ashlea Clark, wife of Ed; step-grandchildren Zachary and Nicole; and three great-grandchildren.

A gathering and viewing will be held on Wednesday, February 11, from 3:00 to 5:00 PM at Charles F. Snyder Jr. Funeral Home & Crematory, 3110 Lititz Pike, Lititz, PA.