Verl Wilson Clay

Mr. Verl Wilson Clay, age 96, passed away Tuesday, June 3, 2008. Mr. Clay was born October 14, 1911 to Frank E. and Anna (Chambers) Clay in Lima, OH. He served his country in the US Army during WWII. He was employed at Continental Motors, C.W.C. and later Brunswick for 20 years, retiring in 1976. He later worked with Jack Loeks Theaters, retiring when he was 90 years old. Mr. Clay was a member of Central Assembly of God where he served as an usher for 15 years and was a commander with the Royal Rangers, teaching the youngsters at church life skills along with spiritual lessons. He was a member of the American Legion Post #185 where he served as chaplain for 4 years. He was also a member of the Machinist's Union #1813. Verl was very involved in the lives of children, coaching for his son's Little League teams for many years and working for Teen Challenge for 9 years in Muskegon and in Rehrersburg, PA. He married the former Beulah I. Harker in 1955 and she preceded him in death in 1974. He then married the former Anita Saxton in 1987 and she preceded him in death in 2003. He was also preceded in death by his grandson, Matthew Ferrier, and by 8 brothers. SURVIVORS include 1 daughter, Dessie (Virgil) Jensen of Fowlerville, MI; 3 sons, Michael and Roger Clay, both of Norton Shores and Joseph (Julie) Clay of Muskegon Heights; 9 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. A FUNERAL SERVICE will be held 11AM Friday, June 6, 2008 at Central Assembly of God, 896 Home St., with Rev. Dr. Gordon Aikin officiating. Burial will be in Sunrise Memorial Gardens with Full Military Rites under the auspices of VFW Muskegon County Council. Visitation will be Thursday from 2-4 and 6-8 PM at The Sytsema Chapel Sytsema Funeral Homes, Inc. 737 Apple Avenue 231 726-5210 Memorial contributions may be made to Central Assembly of God Building Fund.