For his family and friends, Clarence Lee Clay Jr.’s life was defined by consistency.

The Jackson Ward resident, who died Jan. 16 at age 85, was a longtime community fixture and a father, husband and friend whose life continues to set an example for his loved ones.

“I think that his legacy is going to help us out, bottom line,” said Clay’s oldest son, Rodney. “We will always fall back on what he showed us.”

Clay was born Sept. 17, 1940, to Clarence Lee Clay Sr. and Evelyn Thompson, the youngest of their four children. The family lived in a house on Leigh Street in what is now Abner Clay Park, across from Ebenezer Baptist Church.

Clay graduated from Maggie Walker High School and attended Virginia Union University. Among his peers were tennis legend Arthur Ashe, pioneering news anchor Max Robinson and Max's brother, lawyer and activist Randall Robinson.

Although a man of steady habits, Clay proved adaptable throughout his career. During nearly 40 years at pharmaceutical company A.H. Robins, he held multiple roles — from mail operations to the health care division to management — before retiring after 36 years.

For 20 years, Clay worked at A.H. Robins alongside his wife, Ann. Their deep love remained with Clay after her death. He stayed dedicated to the Jackson Ward community, its local events and his neighbors. Clay was also father-in-law to Richmond Free Press photographer Regina Boone and a devoted supporter of the newspaper.

Clay’s family and lifelong friend Willie Burney remember him as a talented dancer, singer and athlete. He also expressed his appreciation for friends and family through his love of cooking.

Clay was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; and his sisters Gwendolyn, Joyce and Sallie. He is survived by his children; Rodney, Eric and Kenya, grandchildren India, Ryan, Keenan and Tavien; great-grandchildren Zuri and Ryan Jr.; and other family and friends.

A public viewing will be held Friday, Feb. 6, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Scott’s Funeral Home, 115 E. Brookland Park Blvd., followed by a funeral Saturday, Feb. 7, at 11 a.m. at Ebenezer Baptist Church, 216 W. Leigh St.