Emma Clay

Obituary Emma Clay August 14, 1936 – August 23, 2022 True to her nature and fighting spirit, Emma Clay, 84, took her final breath to complete her well-deserved transition, at home, surrounded by her loving family on Tuesday, August 23, 2022. She was born on August 14, 1936 in St. Matthews, South Carolina to the late George Mayes, Sr. and Adeline Palmer, and was the third oldest of her five siblings; she had three sisters and two brothers, all of whom predeceased her. New York City played a significant part in Emma’s life for several reasons. Upon graduating from John Ford High School, in South Carolina, she relocated to New York to live with her aunt and uncle and attended a private business college, attaining an associate degree in business administration. Prior to establishing her long career and commitment to public and community service, she cultivated her sense of style while working as a model for several years in New York. Most importantly, it was at Salem United Methodist Church in Harlem that she married the love of her life, Harold E. Clay, Sr. who predeceased her on October 31, 2001. Their loving union was blessed with three children: Sonji Jones, Harold E. Clay Jr., and Joy Ramos. Emma and Harold Sr. raised their family in Stamford, Connecticut. She worked at Stamford Housing Authority for over a decade as a Leasing Officer and retired in 2008. Throughout her life, Emma was very involved in her community and assumed leadership roles in her church as an Officer and Deaconess. She also enjoyed being a member of the Chancellor and Chancellorettes Club. She loved gardening, decorating and was a wonderful cook – “who can forget her signature potato salad?” Although small in physical stature, Emma’s life was characterized by her enormous inner strength, faith in God, and love of family which always sustained and enabled her to fulfill many of her personal goals. She was a fearless, tireless-protector, and advocate of her family and friends. Emma was the ally you always wanted and could also be an enemy you never wanted to acquire. Simply put, she was a force of nature and never at a loss for words. She was a caregiver, confidant, friend, and counsel to many and will be remembered for her wisdom and tenacity. Emma leaves to cherish her memory: three children, Sonji Jones, Harold E. Clay, Jr., Joy Ramos; son-in-law, Crispin Jones; grandchildren, Nikole Burnes, Ian Jones, Bree Jones, and Nia Ramos; and a great-grandchild Londyn Bryant, nieces, nephews, and her extended family and friends. She had a special closeness and bond with her beloved niece, Deirdre Murphy. Emma lived a full and rich life and believed that it matters not, how much we own, the cars… the house…the cash. What matters most is how we live and love. She left an indelible mark on all of us. Visitation will be held on Monday August 29, 2022 from 10:00AM - 11:00AM followed by a service of celebration at 11:00AM at Union Baptist Church 805 Newfield Ave., Stamford, CT. with Rev. Dawn C. Snell, Eulogist and Rev Andre Bradley, Senior Pastor. Interment will take place at Fairfield Memorial Park, Stamford.

Tributes

Emma Clay

August 14, 1936 - August 23, 2022