Clay family,

I enjoyed working with Rex at Gaston College.  He was always helpful and quick to answer a request.

My thoughts and prayers are with you all.  May your memories sustain you in the days and months ahead.

Jennifer Phillips

I worked with Rex for three years at Gaston College and learned so much through our collaborations.  In addition, I recall him often speaking lovingly of his sons and wife and know that you all will miss him tremendously.  My sincerest condolences to you and am sending prayers for your comfort and peace.

Apriale Neill

I came to Gaston College in 2014; and upon meeting Dr. Clay, I soon realized what a kind, gracious, and intelligent person he was. Whenever I needed information or had a question related to his department, he was always willing to help and so patient if I had additional questions. On several occasions, Dr. Clay took time to send me emails complimenting my work. I knew his words were sincere, and those messages were encouraging for me and are a favorite memory of him.

My sincere sympathies are with all of Dr. Clay’s family members. May it give you comfort to know he was a respected and beloved member of the Gaston College family. May God’s peace be with you now and in the days ahead.

Lynda Ellington

Delia, Brent and Kevin,

Delia I am sorry to hear about Rex.  Brent and Kevin it seems like yesterday when you both were riding big wheels down the driveway.   I have fond memories of  your father.  We had many conversations over the years.  He was a kind, generous, sincere, genuine and loving person.  He cared deeply about all of you.  Brent and Kevin you are both grown men who have become who your father wished you would be.  I know your father is proud of who you are and will always be in your hearts and minds.  You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Danny Sellers

Dearest Aunt Delia, Brent, and Kevin,

When I was a little girl, Uncle Jerry was often in Mystic, Connecticut, visiting my mother and our family with Grandmother Clay. I remember him well: his quiet, rock-solid presence, his strong arms helping my father rebuild stone wall fences, and his absolutely dry, absolutely perfect whip-smart sense of humor. He was unfailingly kind and loving to me, a wonderful Uncle. I remember his dedication to education as a field and as a path in life. I loved how much he loved his family, and how he brought Brent and Kevin with him to all our family events, from joyous reunions to funerals. I will remember him with love always. 

I send my condolences to the family. I had the opportunity to talk with Mr. Rex at a conference two years back and it was my pleasure to talk with him. He will be missed.  

While I was working on my doctorate, Rex was a terrific help to me in running the data, explaining the data, and making improvements to the process. We spent several hours on Friday afternoons discussing statistics. We worked together on several projects at Gaston College, and Rex was always so nice, so patient, and just an all-round good human being. 

I will certainly miss you and our conversations. You taught me a lot, and for that, I thank you. 

Uncle Jerry, as he was known throughout the Clay family,  would visit us in Old Mystic, CT.  He brought a bit of an air of mystery, quiet, thoughtful, and intellectual. He cared greatly for his family, and has always been a gentle, steady and supportive presence to all family members.  Uncle Jerry carried himself with dignity, and quiet strength. Our hearts will forever grieve his loss.  

For most of my grade school years uncle Jerry would take me to see Gradma in Huntington,WV ..  Cruzzin the hi way in his white three speed rambler, in the heat of the summer. equipped with seat mat, Tennis  rackets, am sports radio and a round finger comb/brush.  Somehow uncle Jerry Kept me entertained for hundreds of miles with no ADD medicine. 
Jerry helped develop my interest in tennis and basketball and I always think about him during March madness. Thanks uncle Jerry.    

         Love Eric 

Extending my deepest condolences to the family of Rex Clay!  I’ve worked with Rex at Gaston College since 2006.  Always a true gentleman and the consummate professional, Rex will be missed!  



OBITUARY

Dr. Rex Jerome Clay

May 12, 1942 – March 18, 2021

McEwen Funeral Service-Derita Chapel

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