Rena Claybon

Rena Claybon was born on January 9, 1958, in Elizabeth, NJ to Annie Fay and Jesse Claybon. Rena unexpectedly departed her earthly home on May 15, 2025.

Rena was truly an amazing person. She was the eldest daughter of nine siblings. As the oldest, she was often tasked with the responsibility of caring for her sisters, brothers, nieces, and nephews. This is what made Rena so special. She displayed traits like being compassionate, nurturing, protective, and reliable. Her ability to shower family with love was undeniable. This didn’t stop with her immediate family, she also extended herself to all who needed help and support. One of her special relationships that grew out of her caring heart was the motherly role established with her nieces, Quadria, Vivian, and Sweet Pea. When Rena extended her kindness to a person, this included a protective side of her as well. Although she was somewhat small in stature, she would protect those she loved by any means necessary. Rena was the ideal surrogate mother for all whom she encountered.

As a long-term resident of the City of Elizabeth, Rena attended the Elizabeth Public School System. As a student, Rena was smart in school. She also attended Mother Seton High School and loved playing basketball. Despite leaving High School, Rena returned to school to obtain her GED as she felt education was important. After receiving her GED, Rena held various occupations. She worked for Economy Color Card as a frontline employee and the Jersey Gardens Mall as a Security Guard. Of the many jobs she held, the one that stood out was the job of Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). She received her CNA Certificate from Drake College of Business on September 26, 2009. Rena performing this job was a natural extension of what she demonstrated daily with family and friends. As a CNA, she provided basic care to patients under the supervision of a Registered Nurse. Her focus was on direct patient care, assisting with activities of daily living like bathing, dressing, and feeding, as well as monitoring vital signs.

Rena also had a dynamic sense of humor. Her witty remarks and comebacks offered a lighter perspective on life. Through her sense of humor, regardless of the circumstances, Rena was able to emotionally support and help a lot of people navigate challenges and develop a more positive outlook. In the end, trusting relationships were made that will endure throughout life, providing an unforgettable source of comfort and companionship.

Rena is preceded in death by her father, Jesse Claybon. Rena leaves to cherish her memories, Mother Annie Claybon, Siblings Valerie Claybon, Jake Claybon, Cheryl Negron (Big Angelo), Kevin Richardson (Tonya), Freddie Richardson, Gerard Richardson, Darnese Claybon, Yvette Green (Mark), motherly figure to, Quadria Fox (Dira), Vivian Brown (Pig), Quadidrah Nash (Sweet Pea), as well as a host of nieces, nephews, family, and friends.