John Edward Clay

Mr. John Edward Clay, 77, of Lenoir, passed away on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital in Winston-Salem, following a tragic accident.

John was born on November 2, 1947, in Caldwell County to the late Clarence Dennis Clay and Helen McCall Clay. He was a proud veteran of the United States Navy and worked for many years as a skilled surveyor with Western Carolina Surveyors, a profession that reflected his deep connection to the land and dedication to precision and integrity.

John was a man of strong Christian faith who loved the Lord and lived his life guided by that faith. His quiet strength, kindness, and compassion were a reflection of his belief in God, and he found great comfort in prayer and the promises of scripture.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary Louella Harwood Clay; his step-son, Tommy Mull; and step-daughter, Lynne Mull.

Those left to cherish his memory include his daughters, Mandy Williams and husband Kurt of Granite Falls, and Beth Clay of Lenoir; his step-son, Brian Barrier and wife Michelle of Morganton; grandchildren, Sabrina Clay, Christian Williams, Cameron Williams, Trevor Barrier, Luke Barrier, Ashley Jennings and wife Alice, Shaelyn Carson, and India Mull; and great-grandchildren, Ronnie Clay and Alex Clay.

He is also survived by his siblings, Virginia “Buster” Sigmon and husband Powell, Linda Clay and husband Bill, Jenette “Susie” Smith and husband Jim, and Dennis Clay, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

John was a devoted family man who deeply cherished time with his children and grandchildren. He loved gardening, fishing, and hunting, and had a special bond with the many animals he cared for over the years—especially his cherished hunting dogs. His respect for nature and animals was a constant presence in his life and brought him comfort and joy.

A celebration of life will be held in July for friends and family to gather and honor John’s memory.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Matt Malloy Scholarship at Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute, John’s alma mater—a cause close to his heart and one that supports the next generation of learners.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, and his family finds peace in knowing he is now at rest with his Savior.

An online obituary can be found at www.mackiefh.con

Mackie Funeral Service is assisting the family.