Clayton Lee “C.L. Smooth” Rankin
Clayton Lee “C.L. Smooth” Rankin, 79, of Paris, Kentucky, passed away on July 16, 2026, in Paris, Kentucky. He was born on September 27, 1946, in Paris, Kentucky, and lived a life marked by hard work, devotion to family, faith, and a warm sense of humor that those who knew him will always remember.
He was the beloved husband of Dorothea Y. Jackson Rankin and a devoted father to Tanya Whitson, Ortega Crutcher, Tasha Crutcher, Christian Rankin, Cole Lee Rankin, and Shanta Rankin. He was a proud grandfather to Devon, Skylar, Karter, Kyla, Kierra, Kyan, Kingston, Annabelle, and Deshawn “SJ,” and his three step-grandchildren, Tamera, Isaiah, and Camry. His family circle was further enriched by his four sisters, Charlotte Smith, Janice (Melvin) Ladson, Tonya Munday, and Teresa Henson; his two brothers, Delcarlos (Carmella) Duncan and Kim (Lisa) Duncan; and his three aunts, Shirley Crooks, Brenda Hart, and Patricia Crooks. He is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members who will carry his memory forward with love.
Clayton was preceded in death by his parents, John Henry Rankin, Sr., and Elizabeth Crooks Duncan; his stepson, Troy Crutcher; his five brothers, Douglas Duncan, Leroy Henson, Robert Henson, David Crooks, and John Henry “Pepper Dick” Rankin, Jr.; and his three sisters, Doralitta Tyler, Patricia Ann Rankin, and Bertha Brown. Their memories remained close to his heart throughout his life, and he honored them through the way he cared for others and stayed connected to his family.
Clayton worked hard throughout his life and retired from Ramset Company after years of dedicated service. He also worked as a brick and block mason, a trade that reflected his strength, skill, and determination and he worked for the railroad for several years. He served his country in the United States Army, an experience that stood as a testament to his sense of duty and discipline. In all that he did, he carried himself with quiet pride and a strong work ethic that earned the respect of those around him.
A Christian by faith, Clayton was a member of the Prodigal’s House Church, where he found fellowship and spiritual strength. He enjoyed cheering on the University of Kentucky Basketball team, Michigan State Basketball and the Los Angeles Lakers, and he could often be found talking about the game with enthusiasm. He also loved fishing and cooking, and he took pleasure in sharing good food and good company.
Those who knew Clayton will remember him as funny and interesting, a man whose presence could brighten a room and whose stories could bring laughter and conversation. He had a way of making people feel welcome, and his personality left a lasting impression on family, friends, and neighbors alike. His life was one of perseverance, love, and connection, and his legacy will continue through the many lives he touched.
Clayton Lee “C.L. Smooth” Rankin will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His family and friends will hold close, the many memories of his kindness, humor, and steadfast spirit, and his life will remain a cherished part of their hearts forever.
Funeral services will be conducted at 1:00 PM Saturday July 25, 2026, by Rev. Dr. Morgan Gilkey and Rev. Aaron Crumbie at the Lusk-McFarland Funeral Home Chapel, 1120 Main St., Paris, KY. Visitation will be from 11:00 AM Saturday July 25, 2026, until the hour of service at the funeral home.
Pallbearers are Izzah Stout, Cregg Hill, Jose Crooks, Shelby Young, Vada Rankin and Woody Clark. Honorary pallbearers are Tyrone Tucker, Chuck Hamilton, Kerry Thomas and the Dumphord children.
The family would also like to give a special thanks to Jennifer McNear and Faye Hamilton.
Memorials may take the form of contributions to Lusk-McFarland Funeral Home Chapel, 1120 Main St., Paris, Ky 40361 to help the family with funeral expenses.
The funeral arrangements were entrusted to the Lusk-McFarland Funeral Home Chapel, 1120 Main Street, Paris, KY. The online guestbook is at www.Lusk-McFarland.com
