Gene was born April 30, 1952, to James Wesley Clay and Elsie Elizabeth Wood Clay in Winston County, Mississippi. He was a faithful member of Indian Springs Assembly of God Church. A gifted musician, Gene enjoyed playing the guitar and piano and his musical talents were a blessing to many. For years, he faithfully played bass guitar at church ministering to others through his music. He enjoyed listening to music with the Beach Boys being his favorite group. Gene was an avid hunter and fisherman who enjoyed spending time in nature, whether alone in the stillness of the woods or casting a line with loved ones by his side. Above all, Gene dearly loved his family, especially his grandchildren. He was their biggest fan, always in the stands, cheering them on in all their activities. His love for sports, especially basketball, ran deep, and he passed that passion down to his grandchildren.
Gene is survived by his high school sweetheart who has been his loving wife for 54 years, Sherry Drury Clay, and daughters, Amy (Chet) Wilkes and Kayla (John Damon) Snow all of Noxapater. One of his greatest joys was being “Papaw Gene” to his grandchildren: Madelyn Wilkes, Nona Wilkes, Wes Snow, and Lilah Snow. He is also survived by his sister, Sue Clay Ward (Billy “Rabbit”) as well as his nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. Gene was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Jimmy Clay; and his sister, Janie Persons.
Serving as pallbearers are Tim Boatner, Michael Bowers, Joe Crawford, Donovan Dempsey, Randy Mays, and Johnny Palmer. Memorials in honor of Gene may be given to Indian Springs Cemetery Fund, 301 Mt. Calvary Road, Louisville, MS 39339.
