08/16/2026
Jerry Clay,56, of Ridgely, died Saturday, August 15, 2026, at his residence. Born March 28, 1970, in Hayti, MO, he is the son of Louise Clay Clark and the late George Washington Clay.
Jerry retired as an Engineer Supervisor with the Railroad after a long and dedicated career. A Baptist by faith, he proudly served his country in the United States Army and was a former member of the Lake County Rescue Squad.
Jerry enjoyed caring for his lawn maintenance service and was an avid hunter and fisherman. He especially loved being involved in the lives of his grandchildren, coaching them in sports and, as they would say, sometimes even coaching the coaches! His greatest joy, however, was his family. A loving husband, father, and grandfather, he was affectionately known as “Pa.”
Jerry never met a stranger and was a friend to all who knew him. He was the kind of person who would go above and beyond to help anyone in need, always willing to lend a hand and expecting nothing in return. His generosity, kindness, and love for his family will leave a lasting legacy in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.
Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, August 19, 2026, in the Ridgely Chapel of Curry Funeral Home officiated by Reverend Chuck Graham with interment to follow in New Haven Cemetery.
The family will receive friends Tuesday, August 18th from 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at the Ridgely Chapel of Curry Funeral Home.
Matt Deason, Chris Runions, Brandon Runions, Mike Bates, Jerry B. Hampton, Roger Belt, T.J. Hoekstra and Blayze Burg will serve as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers will be members of the Lake County Rescue Squad.
He is survived by wife, Kathy Clay; two daughters, Shayna Ammons (Matt) of Dyersburg, Hope Rogers (Chase) of Portageville, MO; his mother and step-father, Louise Clay Clark (Ray) of Braggadocio, MO; his brother Terry Clay (Deronda) of Florence, SC; and six grandchildren, Blayze Burg, Mason Ammons, Cambri Cruce, Milly Rogers, Kinslee Rogers and Cooper Rogers.
The family requests memorials be directed to the Lake County Rescue Squad.
We are privileged and honored to serve the family of Jerry Clay. You may share your condolences and your memories with the family at www.curryfuneral.com.