Calvin Rufus Clay

Calvin was born April 13, 1929, in Crittenden County, Arkansas, to Lillian and David Clay. He was raised in Turrell, Arkansas, where he developed the determination and quiet strength that would characterize his life.

During World War II, Calvin was determined to serve his country despite being underage. At 15, he attempted to join the United States Marine Corps but was turned away because of his age. Undeterred, he tried again the following year after seeing Army recruiting posters. This time, his age was not questioned, and from that day forward, Calvin celebrated two birthdays—16 months apart. He served honorably in Germany and Czechoslovakia and completed his tour of duty in 1948. In 1950, he joined the Air Force Reserves and was called to active duty during the Korean War, serving until 1952.

In 1953, Calvin married the love of his life, Jonelle Wiley. They made Memphis their home and built a life centered on family, faith, and hard work. While working as a bookkeeper for several local businesses, Calvin was given the opportunity to purchase one of them. In 1968, he proudly became the owner of Dixie Manufacturing Company, leading the business with integrity until his retirement in 1998.

Calvin and Jonelle were faithful members of Trinity Baptist Church, Temple Baptist Church, and most recently Union Avenue Baptist Church. He was also a dedicated Mason.

Calvin was a quiet, thoughtful man who found simple joy in watching sports and old Westerns on television. Above all, he loved his family deeply and cherished the time spent with them. His steady presence, humility, and devotion will be dearly missed.

He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 73 years, Jonelle Wiley Clay; his son, Tim Clay (Anne); daughters, Jodie Sanderson and Kim Underwood (Bob); grandsons Tim Clay Jr. (Allison), BJ Clay (Whitney), and Peyton Sanderson; granddaughters Dawn Deets, Krissy Deets, Megan Clark, Kristin Tate, Jessica Kupiszewski (Alex), Scarlett Sadler, and Caroline Slavinsky (JJ); and seven great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lillian and David Clay; his sisters, Mary Helen Perkins and Francis Pruett; his daughter, Bridgette Deets; a granddaughter and a great-granddaughter.

Funeral services will be held at Memphis Funeral Home on Poplar Avenue on Monday, March 2, at 12:30 PM, with visitation beginning at 11:30 AM. Burial will follow at West Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Central Church in Collierville, Tn or the charity of your choice.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.MemphisFuneralpoplar.com for Calvin’s family.