Dr. Clarence Joseph Maday

Clarence was born in Chicago, Ill on September 18, 1929. He graduated from Illinois Technical Institute (1951, 1954) studying mechanical engineering. Between 1954-56 he honored his draft notice and took a break from school and served with the army during the Korean War. He received his doctorate from Northwestern (1960) in mechanical and aerospace engineering.

Clarence was married to Marjorie Doolin, August 13th 1960. They were married for 58 years before Marjorie’s passing in 2018.

The majority of Clarence’s career was in education. He began teaching in the Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Department at NC State University in 1964 and would remain there until his retirement in 2001. Clarence was an active member of the Knights of Columbus for many many years serving in various offices. He was also active in many church activities throughout the years. He spent 55 years in Raleigh, NC before moving to Harrisonburg, Va in 2014, to live in a retirement community near his daughter and grandchildren.

Clarence had a lifelong curiosity and desire to continue to learn and share what he was learning. He was an avid reader, the books he was reading prior to his entering Hospice care – Relativity Simply Explained and The Mathematics of 3-D Printing. When he wasn’t reading, he was most likely watching a good documentary or having a good conversation. He loved and appreciated the intricacies of creation and all the math and detail he could see. His faith and his love of science were intertwined – each supporting and encouraging the other. He had a love for cooking and baking and of course the science of it. He was always willing to try some new method and made lots of memorable and delicious food. He loved automobiles and proudly got to own his two favorite cars – 1954 MG convertible and 1967 GTO convertible – both metallic blue, his favorite color. He was known for his kindness, his generosity and his ability to make everyone feel seen and valued.

Clarence is survived by his children, Catherine Couch (Ken) of Harrisonburg, Va and his grandchildren (Hannah Couch (Durham, NC), Lauren Couch (Blacksburg, VA) Aaron, Caleb and Katelyn Couch (Harrisonburg, VA) and son Gregory Maday (Patty) of Raleigh, NC. He is also survived by his three younger sisters , Patricia Gifford , Nancy Golden and Alice Martin and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at the Sunnyside Chapel, on August 25th at 11am. He will be buried in Raleigh, NC with his wife.

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