Clayton Hobble

Clayton Vene Hobble, formerly of Emporia, Kansas, passed away peacefully at home in Helotes, Texas, on Friday, May 22, 2026, at the age of 85.

Born on January 16, 1941, in Emporia, Kansas, he was the son of Wilbur and Lena Smith Hobble. Clayton married Clois Erlene Ensminger, his beloved wife, on August 18, 1962, in Emporia. She preceded him in death on August 26, 2023.

Clayton is survived by his brother, Kenneth Hobble (Anne) of Plano, Texas; his son, Jason Dale Hobble (Mary) of Emporia; his daughter, Elisha Torres (Matt) of Helotes, Texas; grandchildren Chelsea Cantrell (Matt) of Folsom, California, Ryan Torres of Euless, Texas, and Derek Torres of San Antonio, Texas; as well as great-grandchildren Madison, Peyton, and Jackson Cantrell.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife.

Raised in Dunlap, Kansas, Clayton grew up as a rural farm boy. He served in the United States Army from 1968 to 1969 during the Vietnam era. Following his honorable service, he built a successful career in banking. His professional roles included night auditor for Citizens State Bank and Vice President positions at Lyon County State Bank, Admire Bank, and Cottonwood Valley Bank until his retirement.

In retirement, Clayton enjoyed socializing with friends at the American Legion, participating in morning coffees and afternoon gatherings. After relocating to Texas, he continued these social traditions with his daughter, son-in-law and friends, often visiting venues such as the oldest VFW post in San Antonio. Following his cancer diagnosis in March, he adapted his afternoon beverage choice but continued to appreciate time spent with loved ones and friends.

Clayton Vene Hobble’s life was one of devotion—to family, to community, and to country—and he will be remembered with deep affection and respect by all who knew him.

Clayton was a member of Ball-McColm Post #5 American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Americus Masonic Lodge, and the Arab Shrine.

Cremation has been planned. A memorial service will be at 2:00 p.m., June 12, 2026, at Roberts-Blue-Barnett Funeral Home in Emporia, Kansas, followed by burial with military honors at Maplewood Memorial Lawn Cemetery in Emporia. Memorial contributions may be made to Ball-McColm Post #5 American Legion and sent in care of Roberts-Blue-Barnett Funeral Home, P.O. Box 175, Emporia, Kansas 66801.