Gene Edward Clay

Gene Edward Clay, 71, of Lynchburg, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Thursday, March 4, 2010, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born November 16, 1938 in Halifax County, he was the son of the late Bessie Dalton Frazier, and the late George Raymond Clay, and his step father, the late Louis Lee Frazier.

Gene is survived by the love of his life, Doris Miles Clay, to whom he was married for 51 years. In addition to his wife, Gene is survived by his children; James Edward Clay and his wife, Sandy, of Rustburg, Donna Clay Cox and her husband, Mike, of Rustburg, and Michael Lee Clay and his wife, Kelly, of Lynchburg, seven grandchildren; Jake Clay, Carson Clay, Krystal Cox, Quinton Cox, Brandon Frazier Cox, Tyler Clay, and McKenzie Clay.

Gene will be remembered as a good Christian man. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. Gene worked for Piedmont Airlines and was transferred to Orlando, FL. He and Doris moved back to Lynchburg in November of 2002, this gave them a chance to spend more time with their grandchildren. Gene enjoyed attending their Little League games and cheerleading, while watching them grow up. Gene had a love for music, playing in gospel, country, and blue grass bands; he loved fishing and will also be remembered for his vegetable gardens. Joining Timberlake United Methodist Church, he enjoyed the sermons of Pastor Rob.

The family will receive friends from 2:30 PM to 4:00 PM on Sunday, March 7, 2010 at Tharp Funeral Home, Lynchburg, Virginia.  A funeral service will be conducted at 4:00 PM on Sunday, March 7, 2010, in the Chapel of Tharp Funeral Home with the Rev. Dr. Tom Bryant, the Rev. Jim Galford, and the Rev. Ralph Metcalf officiating.  Interment will follow in Cumbie Cemetery, Rustburg.

Memorial contributions may be sent to Timberlake United Methodist Church, 21649 Timberlake Road, Lynchburg, VA 24502, (434)-239-1348.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg, is assisting the family, 434-237-9424.