Saturday, July 29, 2023 11:00 am ANDREWS CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 122 Watterson Street Jonesboro, Georgia 30236 Rev. Donald K. Reed, Sr., Officiant Senior Pastor SUNRISE July 9, 1945 SUNSET July 24, 2023 CELEBRATING THE LIFE & LEGACY OF Frank Clay
OBITUARY Mr. Frank Clay was born in Jonesboro, Clayton County, Georgia, to the late Mr. Mayso Clay and Mrs. Annie Pearl Clay. Frank was affectionately known for his humor, wit, and outgoing personality. Frank’s life was marked by a deep commitment to service and an unwavering love for his country. After graduating from W. A. Fountain High School, he selflessly volunteered to serve in the United States Army, where he spent three honorable years. Frank’s dedication to his duty led him to voluntarily deploy to Vietnam, where he served as a communication wireman and Military Policeman during the Vietnam War. Soon after his honorable discharge from the United States Army, his daughter Tamara Styles (Studstill) was born. Family meant everything to Frank, and he cherished the memories of his late parents and siblings: two brothers, Henry James Clay and Aubrey (Pap) Clay, and three sisters, Annie Roof Clay, Mary Louise Clay Curtis, Doris Clay Davis, and Helen Clay Brown, who preceded him in death. Frank was a loving father, and he adored his daughters, Latori Clay and Tamara Styles (Studstill). Frank’s thirst for knowledge led him on a journey of learning and personal growth. He attended Atlanta Junior College where he excelled academically. His exceptional essays were often sought and published in the college newspaper. It was also during this time that he met and married Martha Stewart. From this union, Latori Clay was born. Frank continued his studies at Georgia State University pursuing his passion for Criminal Justice. He achieved his dream and successfully served and retired as a Police Officer with the City of Atlanta. Frank’s commitment to family extended beyond his immediate relatives. He played an active role in the Freeman Family Reunion, spanning over a century of history, serving as the Parliamentarian. He also devoted his time to the Family Ministries Work Area and July Nurture Group (also known as the birthday club) at Andrews Chapel United Methodist Church, where he remained a faithful member until he was no longer able to attend. An avid learner with a curious mind, Frank found joy in exploring diverse subjects such as American history, philosophy, politics, culture, arts, and sports. His Army career also ignited a passion for international travel, enriching his life with new experiences and connections. Recently, Frank found solace in his faith, rededicating his life to the Lord. He embraced a calm and pleasant spirit, finding comfort in hearing the Word of God and listening to hymns, especially the soulful melodies of Aretha Franklin’s Live Gospel album. He leaves behind cherished memories in the hearts of his surviving family, including his daughters, Latori Clay of Atlanta, Georgia, and Tamara Styles (Studstill) of East Point, Georgia, two sisters, Ellen Clay Brown and Francis Clay, as well as his loving aunts, Louise Freeman Hutchinson and Doris Freeman. He also leaves behind two goddaughters, Teyonna Zachery and Terrah Zachery, in addition to a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, and special friends.
Prelude ...............................God Will Take Care of You Pianist, Joyce Pritchard Organist, Dexter Broughton Processional .......................................I’m Yours Lord Pianist, Joyce Pritchard Organist, Dexter Broughton Greeting................................ Rev. Donald K. Reed, Sr. Scripture Reading Psalms 23......................... Rev. Donald K. Reed, Sr. Prayer..................................... Rev. Donald K. Reed, Sr. Tribute of Love.............................................Clay Family Video Presentation Special Remarks Friend................................................Frenda Norwood Family ..................................... Nikal Redwine, Niece Selection ................................. Speak to My Heart Lord Jeanette Crowder Eulogy.......................................Rev. Roderick Freeman Acknowledgments............ Rev. Donald K. Reed, Sr. Recessional..............................................Oh Happy Day Pianist, Joyce Pritchard Order of Service
Don’t Cry For Me Don’t cry for me. I will be okay. Heaven is my home now, and this is where I’ll stay. Don’t cry for me. I’m where I belong. I want you to be happy, and try to stay strong. Don’t cry for me. It was just my time, but I will see you someday on the other side. Don’t cry for Me. I am not alone. The angels are with me to welcome me home. Don’t cry for me, for I have no fear. All my pain is gone, and Jesus took my tears. Don’t cry for me. This is not the end. I’ll be waiting here for you when we meet again.
ANDREWS CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 122 Watterson Street Jonesboro, Georgia 30236 Rev. Donald K. Reed, Sr., Officiant Senior Pastor FLOWER LADIES Family and Friends REPAST Family Life Center 122 Watterson Street Jonesboro, Georgia 30236 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS We, the family of Frank Clay are enormously grateful for the outpouring of condolences, love, phone calls, text, cards, food, flowers, and your presence during our time of bereavement. Your generosity will be long remembered. The Family. PROFESSIONAL SERVICES ENTRUSTED TO Gus Thornhill’s Funeral Home, Inc.