Autry Devan Slay

Autry Devan Slay was the second child born to Percy Curtis Slay, Sr., and Grace Wallace Slay, on November 29, 1939, in Jackson, Mississippi, and made his earthy transition on Monday, February 26, 2024, in Woodbridge, VA. His siblings who preceded him in death were Juan Alvon Slay an Percy Curtis Slay, Jr.

He grew up in a deeply religious and loving Christian home, carrying the mark of a “Deacon’s son.” Therefore, it was difficult to get away with any wrongdoings because during those days the neighbors and community looked out for and nurtured all of the children.

Autry was educated in the public schools of Jackson, Mississippi until the family moved to St. Louis, Missouri in hopes of expanding a construction business and making a better life. He continued his education in the St. Louis Public Schools. He attended Soldan High School where he studied art and pursued a career as a graphic artist (Engineer). He loved basketball, and thought of himself as the MVP. He enjoyed playing basketball after high school with friends, social groups and church groups; wherever he could find a ball, court, and men ready to play.

He started his first job at McDonnell Douglas, St. Louis, Missouri, as a Graphic Artist where he worked on the NASA Program. Shortly after starting his job, Autry was drafted into the United States Army where he served for two years. Upon his return he accepted a job with Ingalls Shipbuilding in New Orleans, Louisiana. He was always seeking ways to improve the quality of life for his family. He continued his career by accepting jobs with Litton Industries, and held positions in Mississippi, Utah and Washington, D.C., before he retired in Burke, VA.

Autry always wanted to give back to the community. He volunteered to work with at-risk youth in the Jackson County Youth Court System in Pascagoula, Mississippi. He would take at-risk youth to the Mississippi State Penitentiary in Parchman, Mississippi. The National Council of Family and Youth Court Judges recognized Autry for the work he and his committee completed for the Project Aware Program. He continued to volunteer with the Fairfax County Youth Court

System. He and other volunteers would take groups of at-risk youth to Lorton Prison. He gave his time and talents to make a difference in the lives of youth.

Autry met the love of his life, Carolyn Ann Jones, in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. On July 22, 1967, they united in marriage, and remained married for fifty-six years. To this union, three children were welcomed: Kendall, Stephanie Charisse, and Denmark Vesey. Autry followed the example of his parents and was a strict disciplinarian who did not spare the rod. He supported his children in all of their endeavors.

Autry enjoyed life, people, and had the gift of gab. He often placed others’ needs before his. He also enjoyed creating business cards, programs, obituaries, banners and various other graphic arts. He enjoyed seeing the smiles on customers’ faces when they viewed the final product. He was never concerned about receiving payment, but was only concerned that one was satisfied with the product.

Autry will be missed by his devoted wife, Carolyn Jones Slay, three sons: Autry Devan Slay, Jr., Las Vegas, NV, Kendall (Rhonda Denise) Charles Town, WV., Stephanie (Arthur), Woodbridge, VA., and Denmark (Jacqueline), Woodbridge, VA; one sister, Denise (Tommie) St. Louis, MO, two brothers-in-law, Tommie Harrold and Willie C. Jones (Fannie) of Jackson, MS, nine grandchildren; Kalandra, Brandon, Keith, Brian, Lauren, Denmark, II, Autry lll, Austin, Adam, and Miiking; seven great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

We realize that as much as we loved you, God loved you best. We cherish the precious memories of your special smile, kind words, laughter, and sense of humor; even when your health began to fail. These recollections will bring comfort in the days ahead.

TAKE HIM IN THINE ARMS O’LORD AND EVER LET HIM BE A MESSENGER OF LOVE BETWEEN OUR ACHING HEARTS AND THEE.

A funeral service for Autry will be held Saturday, March 9, 2024 at 11:00 AM at Mount Calvary Baptist Church, 4325 Chain Bridge Rd, Fairfax, Virginia 22030. A graveside service will occur Tuesday, March 12, 2024 at 12:30 PM at Quantico National Cemetery.