Luther Alan Clay, who was lovingly known as Alan Clay, passed away on September 1, 2023, at the age of 80. He was born on July 7, 1943, in Hendersonville, North Carolina. Growing up in Horse Shoe and Mills River, NC, he went to Mills River Elementary and graduated from West Henderson High School in 1961. Alan furthered his education at Asheville Buncombe Technical College, where he studied Drafting & Design.

His parents, James Luther Clay and Florence Souther Clay, and his siblings, James Earl Clay and Lois Clay Perkins, surrounded Alan as he grew up. He shared his life with his devoted wife of 58 years, Joy Huntsinger Clay, and together they raised a son, Rev. Michael Keith Clay, who married Julie Marie Clay. Alan was also a proud grandfather to Gabriel Joseph Clay.

Alan cherished faith, family, and his country, valuing these things in that precise order. He believed in keeping the message of the Gospel and Scripture simple so that everyone could understand it. Alan had an affection for woodworking and enjoyed crafting baby doll cradles for his nieces, toy toolboxes for his nephews, and even furniture. He had a knack for BBQ, creating southern-style Louisiana ribs at the family's 4th of July picnic, with a secret BBQ sauce recipe passed down to his son. He loved playing bluegrass music loudly as he worked and filled the air with his joy of the music.

Throughout his life, Alan showed an admirable work ethic, laboring tirelessly. He worked until entering the hospital only a few weeks ago. His employment journey included positions at Asheville Showcase and Equipment, Atlanta Fixture and Sales, and, for the last 15 years, Camacho Food Service Design and Associates. He deeply appreciated his connection with James Camacho and his wife Cathy, whom he regarded as friends.

Alan is survived by; His wife Joy Hunsinger Clay, their son Rev. Michael Clay, daughter-in-law Julie Marie Clay, and grandson Gabriel Joseph Clay, siblings,  James Earl Clay (Georgia), Lois Clay Perkins (Robert) last surviving uncle,  Frank Souther (Lea) sister-in-law,  Marie Heller (Bill), Willma Phillips,

a special cousin,  Kay Sentelle and more friends whom he considered family than there is room to mention.

A celebration of Alan's life will take place on Saturday, September 9, 2023, at Moody-Connolly Funeral Home in Brevard, NC. Visitation will begin at 1 pm, followed by the funeral service at 2 pm. Afterward, Alan will be laid to rest at Boylston Baptist Cemetery. Immediately after, family and friends are invited to gather for a reception to honor Alan's memory.

Alan Clay's legacy will live on through the love he shared, the memories he created, and the impact he left on those who were fortunate to know him.

In lieu of floral arrangements, contributions to the National Kidney Foundation would be greatly appreciated. https://support.kidney.org/give/459746/#!/donation/checkout "

Online condolences may be left at www.moodyconnollyfuneralhome.com

Moody-Connolly Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for the family.