Shem Michael Israel Clayborn Sr., 53, of Sheboygan, passed away Wednesday morning, January 22, 2025 at his home.
Born June 26, 1971, in Chicago, IL, Shem was the son of the late Pandora Lanell Clayborn and James Doyle. He attended John Farren and graduated from DuSable High School in Chicago, class of 1990. In his high school years, he was crowned prom king and earned the title valedictorian.
As a young adult Shem earned a baseball scholarship from Lakeland College, in Sheboygan, where he majored in Theater and minored in Performance. Here he made many lifelong friendships. An active part of the community he worked as a RA, played baseball and football for the Muskies, was a part of campus theatrics as both a production crew and cast, worked in the campus kitchen, and cleaned empty rooms in the summer. Shem’s baseball skills allowed him to travel out of the country to showcase his talent, on this trip he also met President Clinton. July 20, 1996, he was united in marriage to Rebecca LeBlanc in Sheboygan.
Shem worked hard his entire life. As a kid he shined shoes in downtown Chicago. As a young man he worked various factory and trade positions. For the last decade he worked in the grocery industry. He made many friends at his various employers, most notably Lear Corporation and Dollar Tree.
Shem loved his music. Any opportunity he had, he would make sure everyone in the area was also listening to his music. His passion for music was not exclusive to listening, as he also wrote and recorded music throughout his life. An avid movie collector and connoisseur, few films made after the 80’s were outside of his collection. Shem loved to cook, making meals for family and friends alike was his love language. Whether it was a celebration, sporting event, or just another day, grilling was his favorite. Most important to him, after family, was his Chicago Bears and Cubs. This was made clear to all who met him, as he never left the house without some team gear. Traditionally, a complete team outfit, complete with the shoes. When Shem made Sheboygan his home it was the beginning of a new chapter, not just for him, but for his entire family. His support and guidance helped family members to build better lives, in a safer environment, with new opportunities, where they created lasting bonds with friends and loved ones.
He is survived by his children, Thomas McGilberry, Kerezma (Carl) Price-Dunlap, Shem (Amy) Clayborn Jr., and Collin Clayborn; his grandchildren, Amadeus and Gavin Clayborn; his brothers and sisters, Carl Clayborn, Charlene Ruffin-Brand, Kerwana Clayborn, Aaron (Jessica) Clayborn, Hoshana Baht Isreal, Tashawn Doyle, James Doyle Jr., Anitra Doyle-Castillo, and Clarence Doyle; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Pandora and James; step-father, Kenneth Floyd; nephews, Ke’van Ruffin, and Aaron Clayborn Jr.; cousins, Jasmine Grover, Joshua Grover, and Curtis Clayborn; and brother-in-law, Marchel Brand.
A Celebration of Life will take place at 1:00 pm on Saturday February 8th, 2025 at the Olson Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 1132 Superior Avenue, Sheboygan WI, 53081. All family and friends are welcome to join. Please wear Bears or Cubs attire in Shem’s honor. Services will follow the Celebration of Life, beginning at 3:00 pm. A repass will take place after Services, location to be announced.
A memorial fund has been established in his name.
The Olson Funeral Home & Cremation service has been entrusted with Shem’s arrangements.
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