James Russell Clay

James Russell Clay, 80, of Monticello, passed away at 10:30 pm, Monday, October 25, 2021 at I U Health White Memorial Hospital.
He was born October 11, 1941 in Winamac to the late Raymond and Gertrude (Burkey) Clay. On October 10, 1971, he married the former Myrna (Capper) Michal at the Monticello Christian Church and she survives.
Jim was a veteran of the United States Navy serving during Vietnam. He retired as the office manager from Hicks Gas and later worked in maintenance at Indiana Beach for several years. Jim was a member of the Monticello Christian Church for more than 50 years where he served as a deacon, elder, building committeeman, and as the church percussionist. Jim came from a musical family and was an accomplished musician. He played in the gospel music group, Light Group from Logansport for many years. Additionally, he played country music, jazz, and big band music with several groups at venues all over the world including Canada, China and Japan. He volunteered at the White County Food Pantry. He was a member of the NRA and enjoyed hunting and fishing. Above all, he cherished time with his family and was the greatest supporter of his grandchildren's activities.
Surviving along with his wife, Myrna of Monticello are his children, Neal (Sandy) Michal of Martin, GA, Deb (David) Baker of Sturgis, MI, Mark Michal of Monticello, and Aaron Clay of Monticello; sister-in-law, Beverly Clay of Inverness, FL ;grandchildren, Jay Michal, Blake (Blair) Michal, Alex Baker, Bernie (Liz) Baker, Zach (Crystal) Seibert, Brooke Michal, Brittany Michal, Bret Michal, Brianna Michal, Chassidy (Kevin) Duttenhaver, Lateasha (Alex) Mata, Michaela Shocke, Josh Seibert, Kadence Clay, Asher Clay, Drake McAninch, and Ariel (Ryan) Long; eighteen great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.
He was also preceded in death by his parents; brother, Bob Clay and a great-granddaughter.
Visitation will be from 12:00 pm until 2:00 pm Sunday, October 31, 2021 at Springer-Voorhis-Draper Funeral Home of Monticello.
Funeral services celebrating Jim's life will be at 2:00 pm Sunday at the funeral home with Pastor, Benji Riddle of the Monticello Christian Church officiating.
Additionally, friends and family are invited to attend funeral services celebrating Jim's life via web cast at 2:00pm, Sunday, October 31, 2021 using the following link: https://webcasts.lifetributes.com/1171699 or may be accessed at springerfuneralhome.com
Burial will follow in Riverview I.O.O.F. Cemetery with military rites rendered there.
Memorial contributions may be given to the Monticello Christian Church.
Family and friends are encouraged to share a photo, a memory, or a message of condolence at www.springerfuneralhome.com