Clay was born June 13, 1939, in St. Paul, Arkansas to James David and Marguerite Bryant. Clay’s fondest childhood memories were spent at his paternal grandparents’ farm. He enjoyed it so much, he let his cousins talk him into getting off the school bus at their stop – even knowing his daddy was not going to be happy when he came to walk him back home.
In 1950, the family moved to California and at age 13 Clay got his first job mucking out horse stalls for Clarence Stockstill.
A cowboy was born.
After high school, one of his first jobs was working for the water company laying pipe. That job was the start to a life-long career in welding. Clay enjoyed his work and the craftmanship of designing and building with pipe and metal. He built horse trailers, horse stalls, corrals and even stainless-steel belt buckles. While for many years he was home every night for dinner, the job required travel. In 1969 the family moved to Idaho, where he joined the Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 296 – Boise, Idaho. His work took him throughout the Gem state, neighboring western states, and around the world. He was a traveling man.
Clay lived for horses, breeding and riding cutting horses during the last half of his life. He competed in local cutting events and was a three time World Qualifier and AQHA 4th in Nation Amateur 2001, and many other titles with his beloved San Mans Alibi. He enjoyed country living and farming a few acres of hay. After retiring, he wanted to be closer to his mother in her elder years. And, although his roots ran deep in Arkansas soil, 150 miles was close enough, so he bought a farm in Missouri.
Graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 25, 2022 at Adkins Cemetery in St. Paul, Arkansas.
