James E. Clay, age 83, of Troy, formerly of Casstown, passed away on Monday, December 15, 2014 at the Hospice of Miami County Inpatient Unit.  He was born on July 28, 1931 in Denton, KY to the late John Steven "Stevie" and Carma "Carmie" (Bellew) Clay.  He is survived by his wife of 63 years of marriage, Mildred S. (Bowling) Clay.

He is also survived by his daughters and sons-in-law: Pamela and Gary Martens of Magnolia, TX and Shirley and Asiddeg Al-Jarani of Troy; son:  Timothy Clay of Troy; brother:  Marion Clay of GA; sister:  Betty Bowling of Grayson, KY; grandchildren: Jessica Martens, Baha' Adin, Yusef, Malik, Adam and Fatima Al-Jarani.  In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his infant sister, Charlotte Clay; and brothers: S. Cline Clay and Howard Clay.

James proudly served in the US Army. He retired from D.E.S.C. in Dayton in 1986.  He was a member of the Cornerstone Baptist Church, where he touched the lives of many, and will continue to even after his passing. His selflessness was unspoken but heard loudly. James never knew the meaning of the word 'stranger' and his remarkable sense of humor brought joy to many, whether he was being ornery to his grandchildren, or showing his love to his wife and children. James had many loves in his life, first in 1952 when he married a lovely young lady named Mildred, later in the birth of his three beautiful children, and even further with his grandchildren who quickly became the apple of his eye. His devotion to his family was unwavering and strong. James was loved by all and will truly be missed.

Services will be held at 2:00 PM on Thursday, December 18, 2014 at the Baird Funeral Home with Pastor Matt Harbour officiating.  Interment will take place in the Casstown Cemetery, Casstown, OH.  The family will receive friends from 6-8 PM on Wednesday and 1-2 PM on Thursday at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Miami County, P. O. Box 502, Troy, OH 45373.  Friends may express condolences to the family through www.bairdfuneralhome.com.