Cover photo for Robert Lee Claybrook's Obituary
Robert Lee Claybrook Profile Photo
1959 Robert 2025

Robert Lee Claybrook

June 23, 1959 — July 5, 2025

Rock Island

It is with profound sorrow and deep love that we announce the passing of a beloved member of the family, Robert Lee Claybrook, who departed this life on July 5, 2025, in Rock Island, Illinois, at the age of 67, surrounded by loved ones. Through his absence, a hole is left in our hearts, but his memory will live on in the countless lives he touched with warmth, wisdom, and unwavering generosity.

Born in Ripley, Tennessee, on June 23, 1959, Robert was a man of quiet strength and gentle spirit. He was the kind of person who made everyone feel like family, always ready with a smile, a kind word, or a helping hand. Whether it was through his unwavering service at Grace Bible Fellowship, a good barbecue, or just a conversation on the porch, he lived his life rooted in faith, love, and service.

Robert had a deep and abiding love for fishing. When able, his favorite place to be was near water, rod in hand, surrounded by peace and nature. For him, fishing wasn't just a hobby-it was a time for reflection, gratitude, and connection. He often said the water taught him patience, and anyone who had the joy of sitting beside him knew that even the quietest moment with him was filled with meaning.

His passion for cooking brought our family together in the best way. Sunday dinners, fish fries-these were the times he shined the brightest, serving love on every plate and filling the room with laughter and joy.

Robert was also a devoted member of Grace Bible Fellowship Church, where he volunteered tirelessly, helping distribute food to those in need. He gave his time and energy freely. He didn't seek recognition; he simply believed in doing good, because that's what his faith and heart led him to do. He worked at the Rock Island School District and Sam's club for years, and when he was unable to work, all he could talk about was wanting to go back to work because he enjoyed what he did.

But above all, Robert loved his family. He was a steady presence in our lives-an anchor during the storms, and a light during the celebrations. He showed up for birthdays, graduations, and even just regular days that turned special simply because he was there. He offered wisdom without judgment, protection without condition, and love without limits.

He is survived by his five children Carrie Workman in Davenport, Iowa, Robert Claybrook Jr. in Springfield, Illinois, Christina Arnold in Moline, Illinois, Scott McVay in Big Island, Illinois, and Danny McVay, two sisters, Rosie Jackson in Davenport, Iowa, and Ida Claybrook (Steve Traman) in Rock Island Illinois, three brothers, Richard Taylor (Kennetha) in Alexander, Illinois, Jackie Lacy in Jacksonville, Illinois, and Adell Claybrook (Evelyn) in Mason City, Illinois, and a host of grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends, all of whom were touched by his kindness, shaped by his guidance, and strengthened by his love. Though we mourn his loss, we also celebrate the remarkable life he lived and the beautiful legacy he leaves behind.

He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Ida Elliot and Adell Claybrook, his brothers Jamie Claybrook and Bill Taylor, his wife Janice Claybrook, his daughter Cindy Claybrook, his great nieces DarKena, Daiziana, and Doneille Burton, and other close relatives. Their memories were dear to him, and he often spoke of the love they shared and the lessons they left behind. We find comfort in knowing they are now reunited. 

Robert taught us all what it means to live a life of purpose, to love without hesitation, and to serve without expecting anything in return. His was a life well lived-and though he may have cast his last line into the waters of his world, we know he's found peace on the shores of the next.

We will miss his laughter, his wisdom, his food, his stories-and most of all, his presence. But we find comfort in knowing that love never dies. It lives on in every family meal, every church service, every fishing trip, every act of kindness we carry forward in his name.

Special thanks to his friend Bruce at Active Day, Anthony, Pastor Donnie, Pastor Mike, Laura, Steve, and his sister Ida. Thank you all so much for being there for him.

Rest easy. We'll carry your spirit with us, always.

A memorial service to honor Robert's life will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church located at 1330 13th Street, Moline, IL 61265 (located in Faith Hall) on Friday, July 18th, 2025, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Please park in the back. 

Following the memorial, we will be at Ben Butterworth Park (WEST Pavilion) located on River Drive in Moline, Illinois, to have food and drinks. The family invites all who knew and loved him to join in celebrating his remarkable life and legacy.

Cremation will be directed by Mississippi Valley Cremation & Direct Burial, 1811 15th Street Place, Moline, IL.

Family and friends are invited to share memories and condolences on his memory page at mvcremation.com

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Robert Lee Claybrook, please visit our flower store.

Service Schedule

Upcoming Services

Memorial Service

Friday, July 18, 2025

2:00 - 4:00 pm (Central time)

Trinity Lutheran Church

1330 13th Street, Moline, IL 61265

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