James Clay, of Waco, died Friday, June 12, 2015, at the age of 77. Funeral services will be 10:00 A.M. Wednesday, June 17, 2015, at the Richfield Christian Church with Pastor Alec Ylitalo officiating. Interment will follow at 2:00 P.M. in Faulkenberry Cemetery in Groesbeck. Visitation will be 5 to 7 P.M. Tuesday, June 16, 2015, at Oakcrest Funeral Home, 4520 Bosque Blvd, Waco.

Mr. Clay was born September 4, 1937, in Fort Worth, Texas, the son of the late Albert Hampton and Nina May (Jordan) Clay. At an early age, he moved with his parents to Waco where he has made his home for the last 75 years. On November 26, 1960, he married Frances Faye Hommel in Waco. For over thirty-five years, he co-owned and operated Brazos Masonry and other masonry companies in Waco until his retirement in 2002. He took great delight in continuing more than 300 continuous documented years of brick and stone masons in the family.

Mr. Clay enjoyed the outdoors, as he was an accomplished horseman who enjoyed all types of flowers. He also loved animals and was a life member of the Case Knife Collectors Club.

A charter member of Richfield Christian Church, he was an active member as long as his health permitted. His parents were instrumental in the building of the church of which his mother named it Richfield Christian Church.

Also preceding him in death was a brother, Hampton Clay.

Survivors include his wife of fifty-four years, Frances Clay; two sons Brad Clay and wife Rhonda, Scott Clay and wife Renee; six grandchildren, Cole Clay, Lindsey Clay, Holly Clay, Emily Clay, Alyssa Clay, Gracey Clay; a step-granddaughter, Amber Freeman, two nieces, Lisa and Susan and his two fur girls Lottie and Fancy.

The Clay family extends their heartfelt expression to the Providence Hospice Team for their loving care and prayers for James during his illness.

For those desiring, the family has suggested Richfield Christian Church, 4201 Cobbs Dr., Waco, Texas 76710, for memorial contributions.