Stanley Clayton was born on 13 September 1911, the son of a clergyman. He was educated at Kingswood School in Bath and qualified from King's College Hospital. He served with distinction as a Major in the RAMC and then resumed his career in obstetrics and gynaecology at King's where he developed a reputation for teaching and clarity of thought. He was made a consultant at both King's College and Queen Charlotte's Hospitals, and later at the Chelsea Hospital for Women. It was soon evident that his ability in teaching and research would lead him into a more academic career. His writing was prodigious and included the "Ten Teachers" publications both in obstetrics and gynaecology, in addition to his meritorious work as editor of the *Journal of obstetrics and gynaecology*. He was duly elected the first Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at King's College Hospital which followed his earlier appointment to the Chair at Queen Charlotte's and the Chelsea Hospital for Women. He was also a very active and important adviser to the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists where he was appointed Simpson Orator in 1978, and President between 1972 and 1975. He received many accolades from universities and medical colleges overseas including honorary fellowships from South Africa, the United States, Belgium and Australia. He was elected an Honorary Fellow of the Royal Society of Medicine, and became Chairman of the Higher Awards Committee. In 1974 his many services to medicine were recognised by a knighthood. He had many interests including art, history, literature, gardening and embroidery, at which he was highly skilled. In 1936 he married Kathleen Mary Wiltshire, who died in 1983. Stanley Clayton died on 12 September 1986 and is survived by a son and a daughter.