Clay J Dugas II

Born and raised in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Clay graduated from Baton Rouge High School in 1958. A gifted athlete and accomplished boxer, he became the Louisiana Golden Gloves Champion. He attended Louisiana State University for his first year of college before transferring to the United States Naval Academy, where he graduated with the Class of 1963.

While at the Naval Academy, Clay continued to distinguish himself in the boxing ring, winning the Brigade Championship boxing title in his weight class as a plebe. He also became the first in his class to earn the coveted “N,” a testament to his exceptional athletic achievement and dedication. Following graduation, Clay received his commission in the United States Marine Corps and after his service he worked for AWC for 30 years before retirement.

Clay lived a full and adventurous life. He loved the beach in Destin, Florida, deep-sea fishing in Grand Isle, running marathons, and spending time on the river. Running was a particular passion, and he proudly completed the Boston Marathon seven times. His determination, competitive spirit, love of the outdoors, and zest for life were qualities that remained with him throughout his years.

Clay was preceded in death by his parents, Willard B. Dugas Sr. and Elizabeth Pitcher Wall; his stepfather, Alex Wall Sr.; his brother, Willard B. Dugas Jr.; and his daughter, Rheagan Dugas.

He is survived by his loving wife, Cheryl Dugas; his son, Clay J. Dugas III (“Jay”) and wife Jennifer; his daughter, Haley Dugas; his brother and sister-in-law, Judge Alex “Brick” Wall Jr. and Claudette Wall; and his six grandchildren, Taylor, Landon, Noah, Tristan, Kyleigh, and Gray. He is also survived by many beloved cousins, nieces, and nephews, as well as countless friends.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Fidelis staff, who cared for Clay with compassion and kindness throughout the past year. We are also deeply grateful to the staff of The Crossing at Clarity Hospice for the loving care, comfort, and support they provided to Clay and his family during his final days. Their dedication and kindness will always be remembered.

Clay will be remembered for his one-of-a-kind zest for life. IYKYK. His legacy will live on through his children, grandchildren, family, and friends, who will carry his memory in their hearts and cherish the life he lived so fully.

Services for Clay will be held on Friday, August 14, 2026, at Rabenhorst Funeral Home East, 11000 Florida Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70815.

Visitation: 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Funeral Service: 1:00 p.m.

Burial: 2:00 p.m. at Roselawn Cemetery, 4045 North Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70806.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Clay’s memory to Face It Ministries or Charlie’s Place Activity & Respite Center – Gonzales.

https://www.faceitministries.com/donate-page

https://alzbr.org/donate/