Orval Clay

Orval S. Clay passed away November 30, 2012 in Gresham, Oregon at the age of 94. He was born in Sunfield, Michigan to parents Charles and Lessie Clay, the fourth of six children. Raised in Michigan, Orval planned to set out for the East Coast after graduating from Kalamazoo College (MI) in 1940, but ended up out West instead. He attended Starr King Seminary College (CA), graduating in 1944.

In 1944, Orval married Jeannette (Keene) at her parent’s home in Berkley, CA. Together they shared 68 years of marriage and raised 5 children. Orval worked as a pastor for over 20 years at various churches. Following work in the ministry, he pursued a second career as an educator for Job Corps, retiring in 1983. Orval was a hardworking man, strong, intelligent and generous. Throughout his life he defined himself through work and words, taking a quiet pride in both. He took pleasure in providing for his family, and helping those around him. During their retirement years, Orval and his wife traveled through 49 of the 50 states.

Orval was preceded in death by his four brothers - Warren, Seth, Virgil and Joel, and sister - Florence; daughter Marjorie Bluder; daughter-in law Wylda and granddaughters Jeannette and Linda. He is survived by his wife, Jeannette; sons Chuck Clay of Alameda, CA, Keene (Peg Kenaga) Clay of Damascus, OR, Peter (Lynn Collier) Clay of Cornelius, OR, and Paul (Terri Rauscher) Clay of La Habra Heights, CA; son in law Harry Bluder of Denver, CA; 11 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at Zion United Church of Christ in Gresham, OR on Saturday December 8, 2012 at 4:00pm. Zion has been their home church since 1968. To leave the family a message please visit www.batemancarrollfunerals.com. In lieu of flowers, the family has suggested donations to Zion United Church of Christ (2025 NE 23rd Gresham, OR 97030) or Snow-Cap (17805 SE Stark St Portland, Oregon).