John David Clay

John David Clay, 80, of Lancaster, Ohio went to be with his Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ and his loving wife of 53 years, Sally Sue Clay, on Tuesday, August 8, 2023. Born in Belo, WV on December 15, 1942, he was preceded in death by his parents, Edward Wayne and Daisy Pearl (Blankenship) Clay; brothers, Charles Edward Clay Jr., Joseph Preston Clay, Richard Henry Clay, Ronnie Elvin Clay; sisters, Irene B. Young, Sena Emogene Edwards, and Edna Mae Berglund.

He leaves behind two brothers, Sidney (Judi) Clay of Wilmington, OH and Jesse (Sue) Clay of Wayne, WV and three sisters, Sallie Farris of Florence, KY, Freeda Clay (Ron McAtee) of Robertsville, AL and Camma (George) Stauffer of Fairhope, AL. Many nieces and nephews will remember Uncle John’s larger than life presence and generous spirit. Uncle John attended many sporting events, hosted week-long summer adventures in northern Kentucky, and slipped you a $20 from time to time.

John was proud to work and retire from General Motors. John and Susie enjoyed their golden years attending many bluegrass festivals. They also enjoyed attending farmers markets while traveling to and from Florida where they spent their winters. He loved watching anything sports, but his favorite to watch was the Cincinnati Reds, Cincinnati Bengals, and UK basketball. John was known to always give a hand up to whoever needed it and didn’t know a stranger. His laughter and kindness will be missed by so many.

Funeral service will be held Saturday, August 19, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. in the FRANK E. SMITH FUNERAL HOME CHAPEL, 405 N. COLUMBUS, ST., LANCASTER, OHIO 43130 with Pastor Sidney Clay officiating.  Burial will follow in Forest Rose Cemetery, Lancaster, Ohio. Friends may visit from 12:00-1:00 p.m. at the funeral home on Saturday.

Memorial gifts may be given to Fairhope Hospice, 282 Sells Rd., Lancaster, Ohio 43130 in his memory.