Benjamin Ray Clawson

Benjamin Ray Clawson, age 54, of Sylva, North Carolina, went home to be with his Heavenly Father after spending his whole life singing about Him, on June 30, 2024. Ben is best known for his love for his Lord and Savior, his family, his community, his coworkers, the outdoors, and for making friends wherever he went.

Ben was born in Jackson County in 1970 to the late Charles Leroy and Mary Clawson Cook.

Ben was a true public servant. He served multiple communities in various roles throughout his career. Ben started his Emergency Services career at Jackson County EMS, currently known as Harris EMS, as an EMT in 1989. His career highlights include being a Paramedic in multiple services throughout the region including Jackson County Rescue Squad and currently serving with Sylva Fire Department. He retired as a Lieutenant from Haywood County Emergency Services where he served for 26 years.

Not only was Ben a public servant, but he was also a servant of the Lord. He loved his church families and singing his praises to the Lord.

  Ben is preceded in death by his father, Charles Leroy; one brother, Charles Ricky; an infant son, Jordan Mckanzie; a grandchild, and many other loved ones.

He is survived by his wife of 28 years, Belinda Morgan Clawson; his mother, Mary Clawson Cook; one son, William Lee Burns (Cat Raybon Burns); two daughters, Makayla Clawson (Wesley Styles) and Shelbi Clawson (Brandon Loy); one sister, Teresa Clawson (Freeman Bradley); one brother, James Leroy Clawson (Jenni); one grandchild who was the light of his life, Clayton James Ingerick and many special aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Ben had many special friends including Bradley Jowers, Carl Stepp, Robbie Arneach, Buddy Ammons, and Caleb Kelley.

The family will receive friends at Appalachian Funeral Services, in Sylva, North Carolina, from 4 pm to 8 pm on Friday, August 2nd. The service will take place at Appalachian Funeral Services, on Saturday, August 3rd at 1 pm.

Pallbearers will be Dillon Clawson, Evan Clawson, Brandon Loy, Wesley Styles, Maceon Jowers, and Ethan Stepp. Honorary Pallbearers will be Ben Dills, Phillip Dills, Luke Ammons, and members of the Sylva Fire Department.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Person First Disability Partners of Sylva, North Carolina, at 525 Mineral Springs Drive.