JD Clay was born in Jennings, FL on May 20, 1949, to the late Sidney Clay and Mattie Mae Thomas.

JD graduated from Hamilton County High School, Jasper, FL in 1967. At an early age he became a member of St. Mary Missionary Baptist Church, Jennings, FL under the leadership of the late Rev. F.W Williams. He was married to the Dorothy Gardner Clay. His favorite pass time was watching Westerns and Football.

JD passed away on April 21, 2022, at Bay Pointe Rehab Facility, in Lake City, FL.

He was preceded in death by his parents, four brothers, sister, a son, and a grandson.

He leaves to cherish his memories a Sister; Betty Bell (Jennings, FL), 2 Brothers; William Lock (Jennings, FL) and Collis Thomas (Ocala, FL). Children; Stephanie Gunsby, (Raynard) Jennings, FL, Jaime Clay Thompkins (Tyrone) Miami FL, Winter Clay Shephard (Escol) Miami FL; One Aunt; Mary Green, Atlanta GA. Extended Sisters; Janie Gandy and Mildred Morris (Harold) Jennings, FL. A host of Grandchildren.  In Laws; Diane Williams, Judy Gardner, Arthur Gardner all of Lake Park, GA. Lavern Brown (Ulysee) Clyattville, GA, Mamie Johnson of Valdosta, GA, and Julius Gardner (Hester) of Jasper, FL and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family, and friends.

Special Friends; Brad Bradshaw, Elouise Bryant, Barbara Jean Robinson