The door to the emergency shelf at Jones High School, where students can order food and hygiene items for struggling families every Thursday, has been dedicated to fallen Orlando Police Lt. Debra Clayton.
Clayton was killed in the line of duty nearly a year ago when she confronted a murder suspect outside a Pine Hills-area Walmart.
Speaking to Channel 9 for the first time since his wife’s death, Seth Clayton said he was thrilled the pantry had been dedicated to her, especially since she mentored many of the students who utilize it.
“She did a lot for the community, and I know she’s loving this right now,” Clayton said. “It means a lot for her memory to be kept alive and (her) legacy to keep going.”
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Jones High School sophomore Marqia Hamilton was happy to see Clayton honored in her school.
“She was good,” Hamilton said. “She did her job.”
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District officials said 63 percent of Orange County students qualify for free or reduced lunch and Seth Clayton said his late wife was passionate about making sure less-fortunate students were fed and able to focus on their education.
Dedications like Monday’s are bittersweet, though, Seth Clayton said.
“To keep having to go through this each time, each dedication, I mean, it’s an honor, but it brings back memories,” he said.
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