Ercilio Ricardo "Rick" Claxton, Jr.

Ercilio Ricardo "Rick" Claxton Jr., beloved son of Ercilio Ricardo Claxton Sr. and Cynthia V. Claxton, was born in the Dominican Republic on August 11, 1959, as the second eldest son among four siblings: Ernesto Ricardo Claxton, Aida Melania Claxton, Jose Ricardo Claxton, and Bennie Claxton. He was raised in Brooklyn, NY, and graduated from Bushwick High School and in 1981, embarked on a distinguished 28-year career in the United States Air Force at Williams Air Force Base, Arizona.

During his military service, Rick traveled to several bases around the world, including Osan Air Base in South Korea, Kadena Air Base in Japan, Spangdahlem Air Base in Germany, Langley Air Force Base in Virginia, Royal Air Force Upper Heyford in England, Pope Air Force Base in North Carolina, and Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada. Despite his demanding career, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.

It was during his military tenure that Rick met and married the love of his life, Lisa Rebecca Claxton. His passion for aircraft kept him on the flight line, where he rose to the rank of Senior Master Sergeant and became the crew chief of his section. Rick's dedication and excellence earned him numerous accolades, including the National Defense Service Medal. He retired as a crew chief in 2009.

After retiring from the Air Force, Rick began a new career as a wiring manager at Boeing Corporation in North Charleston, SC. His leadership and mentorship were highly regarded, and he was celebrated by his colleagues for his dependability and friendliness. After more than 15 years of dedicated service at Boeing, Rick retired to enjoy his hobbies, which included cars, the firing range, and attending South Carolina women’s basketball games with Lisa. He often reminisced fondly about his time at Boeing.

Family was always Rick's highest priority. He cherished traveling the world with his wife, creating lasting memories with friends and family, being a devoted father to his daughters: Yolanda Renee Claxton, Jalesia Symone Claxton, Janae Monique Claxton, and grandfather to Yesxenia Joseph and Fernando Joseph, and a reliable brother and son. Rick was known for his cool demeanor under pressure and his unwavering dependability.

Rick will forever be remembered as a hardworking, kind, thoughtful, and generous man who devoted his life to his family. His legacy of love and dedication will continue to inspire those who knew him. We love, salute, and honor you, Ercilio Ricardo Claxton Jr.

To watch the livestream of the service: https://youtube.com/live/wZyYjy-oQg0?feature=share