Walter Clayton Anderson Jr

Dr. W. Clayton Anderson, 73, of Columbus, MS, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at North Mississippi Medical Center in Tupelo, MS.

Dr. Anderson was born on September 19, 1951, in Meridian, MS, to the late Walter Clayton and Mary Ryan Anderson. He earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Auburn University, graduating with highest honors as part of the Class of 1976.

Clayton married the love of his life, Becky Gilliland, and they recently celebrated 51 years of marriage. Together, they made their home in Columbus, MS, where Clayton owned and operated Animal Medical Center.

A devoted man of faith, Clayton was a longtime member of Fairview Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon, sang in the choir, taught youth Sunday School, and was a faithful member of the Sandy Sanders Sunday School Class.

He was known for his compassion, dedication, and love for both animals and people. Clayton enjoyed working outdoors and found joy in watching his grandchildren play baseball and participate in gymnastics. Above all, he loved his Lord and his family deeply. Clayton is preceded in death by his parents and brother-in-law, Garry Russell.

Clayton is survived by his wife, Rebecca “Becky” Gilliland Anderson, Columbus, MS., a daughter, Sheryl Mixon (Barry), Woodland, MS, a son, Dr. Clay Anderson (Dr. Alicia), Columbus, MS, four grandchildren, Taylor Mixon, Kaylee Mixon, Connor Anderson and Harper Anderson, a sister, Paula Gayle Russell, Kingsville, TX, two brothers, Dr. Neal Anderson (Beverly), Pontotoc, MS and Dr. Ryan Anderson (Lisa) of Carthage, MS. and numerous nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, May 19, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. at Fairview Baptist Church, 127 Airline Road, Columbus, MS 39702. Interment will follow at Memorial Gardens, Columbus, MS. Visitation will take place at the church two hours prior to the service. Memorials may be made to Fairview Baptist Church, Columbus, MS. Cockrell Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with these arrangements.