In Memory: Michael Clayton, MD, MPH, FAAAAI

Michael H. Clayton, MD, MPH, FAAAAI, passed away unexpectedly on November 25 while out jogging.

Clayton served on the AAAAI Board of Directors from 2010-2014, representing the Federation of Regional, State and Local Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Societies (RSLAAIS) as an At-Large Director. He served on eight AAAAI committees, including roles such as Chair of the Credentials Committee and Chair of the Practice & Policy Division. He also received the AAAAI's RSLAAIS Leadership Award in 2014.

He received his bachelors degree from the University of New Mexico and also pursued a masters degree in Public Health at UCLA. He later attended medical school at University of New Mexico (UNM) and was a pediatric resident at Duke University where he developed a strong interest in allergy and clinical immunology. His mentors include Rebecca H. Buckley, MD, FAAAAI; Hugh A. Sampson, MD, FAAAAI; and A. Wesley Burks, MD, FAAAAI. 

Clayton spent seven years in the public health service as a general pediatrician in the underserved areas of southwest Alaska and western New Mexico. He returned to A/I with a fellowship at National Jewish in 1993. Since his fellowship, he has worked in various combinations of academic and private practice for over a decade, in both a single-specialty group and as a solo-practitioner. 

He was devoted to his family, his friends, his patients and his profession. He brought compassion, optimism, energy, and a sense of humor to everything he touched. He was an avid sportsman who enjoyed hunting, fly fishing, riding his motorcycle, camping, hiking. He is survived by his wife of almost 40 years, Christine Campbell Clayton; son, Nicholas Clayton; and daughter, Allison Clayton, all of Albuquerque.

He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. We have lost a wealth of experience and knowledge; a companion; a teacher; a mentor; a truly joyful heart.

If you would like to make a memorial contribution, consider UNM Children’s Hospital, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Ducks Unlimited or any charity of your choice. A memorial service will be on Saturday, December 5, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Paul United Methodist Church, 9500 Constitution Ave NE, Albuquerque, NM 87112. More information is available online.