Larry Sheffield Clay, a beloved son, brother, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, passed away on March 30, 2024, at the age of 76. Larry was born on September 29, 1947, in Durant, Okla., to Robert and Lavelle Clay.
Larry graduated from Calera High School in 1966. After high school, he served his country with honor and distinction as a proud member of the United States Navy. Larry was appointed to the USS George Washington Carver (SSBN 656) on April 16, 1968, where he served with dedication and courage.
Following his military service, Larry pursued a career as a railroad engineer, working for both the Katy Railroad and Union Pacific. His passion for the railways fueled his work, and he approached each day with a strong sense of professionalism and commitment.
In addition to his career achievements, Larry was an avid gardener and was awarded the Oklahoma Master Gardener honor in 2014. He had a green thumb and found joy in cultivating bountiful vegetable gardens and sharing his knowledge with others.
Larry had a zest for life and enjoyed spending time outdoors. He loved camping, casting a line while fishing, exploring scenic bike trails, and perfecting his swing on the golf course. These activities brought him closer to nature and provided cherished memories for him and his loved ones.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Lavelle Clay, and his son, Todd Clay.
Larry is survived by his daughter, Jodi Grover, and her husband, David (Burlington, Kan.); his siblings, Rene Jestis and husband Olen (Bokchito, Okla.), Letitia Pate and husband John (Durant, Okla.), Robert Clay and wife Karen (McAlester, Okla.), and Connie Barnett and husband Gary (Kingston, Okla.); his grandchildren: Scott Clay (Pittsburg, Kan.), Courtney Welch (Tulsa, Okla.), Elijah Grover and wife Martina (Lenexa, Kan.), Isaiah Grover and wife Alexcia (Lenexa, Kan.), and Micah Grover (Great Bend, Kan.); and his great-grandchildren, Kiazer Ruhl and Zaiden Wright.
Larry was a faithful member of the First Baptist Church in Calera, Okla., where he found spiritual guidance and community support.
A memorial service to celebrate Larry’s life will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, April 5, 2024, at the First Baptist Church in Calera, Okla.
Larry’s legacy of patience, love, courage, and kindness will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
Arrangements under the direction of American Funeral Home.