Memories

“Over the years that Nathan and Amber have been married, there haven’t been a lot of interactions with Clay, but he was always warm and kind to us when we had those opportunities. He and Gerald could always talk shop! He was easy to talk to and had the absolute greatest smile! I’m very thankful for the short visit I had with him in his home. We talked about kids, grandkids…his two sidekicks Piper and Ellie and how much he loved a cold Dr Pepper. I loved that he didn’t let go of my hand for those 15 minutes.”

“How can I pick one of my favorites memories when I have so many for a man that was there for me more than my own father? He never missed any of my basketball games, band events and would take the time to swim or practice shooting baskets with me after long days working in the shop. He would always clean if I cooked dinner, he made the best meatloaf I've ever had in my life, he was always involved in helping make mine or my mom's birthdays special, and he taught me how to make fried wontons. I am blessed to have too many beautiful memories with him and his family to ever be able to count or put into words.”

“One of my favorite memories of Clay was my wedding day at the old church on Wilshire Street. He walked me down the aisle and made me feel like a cherished princess.
He was always there for me in all my happiest moments and got me through all the toughest ones.
Clay~ you always been my earthly refuge in the storms of life . I love you dearly and I will miss you always. Love you, your Cherie-kid.”

“Many of my earliest memories of Dad include our walks from the house on Gardens to the corner store for penny candy. I can remember the Sixlets and those walks like it was yesterday.”

“The first time I met Clay, I’m not sure either of us knew what to make of the other. I was just a kid who drove a Camaro, played my music too loud, and was dating his princess. Looking back now, I can understand why he might have been a little protective of her.

Over time, though, Clay came to see just how much Amber meant to me and that she truly is the love of my life. And as he and I got to know each other better, we realized that we had a lot in common too.

I love you, Clay. I miss you more than I can put into words, and I will always be thankful that I had the chance to know you, laugh with you, and call you family.”