Joseph Edward Clay

Joe Clay, 37, of Springfield, passed away at 11:19 p.m. on Thursday, July 14, 2011 at his home. Joe was born September 24, 1973 in Springfield, the son of Edward and Judith Rumble Clay. Joe was a member of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception and attended grade school at the Cathedral Elementary School where he earned a gold and silver medal for singing. He had been goalie of the year in YMCA Soccer League. He had a passion for baseball, which led to a family love of baseball. He was a St. Louis Cardinals and Notre Dame fan. Joe never said a word in the last 25 years, but created unbreakable bonds and friendships for his family. His life has had a continuous positive impact on others, and he will be greatly missed. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandmother, Mary Rumble; paternal grandfather, Thomas Clay; aunt, Carol Ann Clay Johnson; and uncle, Charles Rumble. He is survived by his parents, Ed and Judy Clay of Springfield; brother, Chris (wife, Colleen) Clay of St. Charles; nieces and nephews, Joseph, Jessica, Jennifer and Joshua Clay; grandmother, Teresa Clay of Springfield; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. Visitation: Family will receive friends from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 20, 2011 at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield. Visitation will begin with a prayer service at 4:00 p.m. Funeral Mass: 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, July 21, 2011 at Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, 524 E. Lawrence, Springfield. Burial will follow at Camp Butler National Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to: Cathedral Grade School, 815 S. 6th St., Springfield, IL 62703.