Robert A Clay

In Loving Memory of Robert Arthur Clay

Sunrise: July 21,1945 | Sunset: May 18, 2025

Robert Arthur Clay, affectionately known as “Pops,” was called to eternal rest on Sunday May 18, 2025, at the age of 79, following a long illness. He passed peacefully At Heather Knoll Nursing and Rehabilitation Center while under the compassionate care of Summa Health Hospice Care Staff.

A lifelong resident of Akron, Ohio, Robert was educated in Akron Public Schools and proudly graduated from South High School in 1963. Answering the call to serve, he joined the United States Army and was stationed in Germany during the Vietnam War.

Robert dedicated many years of service to Ohio Bell and later retired from the City of Akron where he worked as a skilled traffic engineer. His calm demeanor and being known for his strong work ethic and humble spirit, Robert left a lasting impression on everyone that he encountered.

Outside of work, Robert found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He was an avid bowler and loved to cook for family and friends. A faithful and active member of Prince of Peace Baptist Church, he served as an Ordained Deacon, sang in the Mass choir as well as the Male chorus, and supported the Culinary Arts Ministry. He was cherished by his church family and will be remembered for his warm presence, big heart, and unique ability to give everyone that he knew their own special nickname.

Robert is preceded in death by his parents, Jasper E. Clay and Bettie M. Clay-Wallace; brothers Eugene Clay Sr., Tobbie D. Clay, and Obie Clay; sister Doris Herring; first wife Josephine “Delores” Clay; Uncle James A. Morgan; cousins James “Sonny” Sales and Ranae Morgan-Redick.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving and devoted wife, Carolyn Neal-Clay; children Ronald (Yolanda) Clay of Charlotte, NC, and Tawana M. Clay of Toledo, OH; sister Carolyn Wallace of Akron, OH; stepsons Russel (Yolanda) Neal Jr. of Akron, OH, Rodney (Cheryl) Neal of Duluth GA, and Monique (Andre) Mitchell of Huntsville, AL. and JoAnn Jones, Chicago IL. Robert is also lovingly remembered by nephews Eugene D. Clay of Akron, OH, Gary (Deborah) Clay, and Alonzo “Fuzz” Woods Jr. of Alexandria, VA; Daniel M. Hayes of Akron, OH; nieces Candice (Scott) Sharp’e of Akron, OH, Regina M. Herring of Hattiesburg, MS, and Justina (Donnie) Miller of Akron, OH. He also leaves cousins Kim and Dawne Redick of Akron, OH, ParaLea Morgan and family of Hartford, CT, more than 30 great-nieces and nephews, and a host of extended family members and dear friends.

Robert’s legacy of love, laughter, and service will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

“Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.”

– Matthew 25:23