William H. "Bill" Clay

William H. “Bill” Clay, 82, a lifelong resident of Springfield, passed away Friday May 31, 2013 at St. John’s Hospital.

Bill was born in Springfield, July 8, 1930 the son of Charles and Gladys (Neher) Clay. He married Jacqueline "Jacque"Ehlert December 29, 1956 and she survives.

He is also survived by his son, Doug of Springfield, his daughter, Becky (husband Bruce) Race of Pleasant Plains, IL two grandchildren; Ashley and Stephanie Race also of Pleasant Plains, IL, his sister, Mary Stumpe of Port Charlotte, FL. and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

His parents preceded him in death.

Bill proudly served in the United States Army and a graduate of the University of Illinois. He was a well know Math Teacher at Lanphier High School retiring in 1985 after 26 years of service. Bill then worked for the State of Illinois Department of Revenue and retired from there in 1993.

He was a member of Luther Memorial Lutheran Church ELCA, where he served as an usher, a member of Phi Delta Kappa Fraternity, a member of the American Legion Post 32, VFW Post 755, and the Elks Lodge #158 in Springfield. Bill loved and cherished his family. His favorite pastime was attending all the activities of his grandchildren, whether softball, basketball, soccer, track and dance recitals. He was an avid bowler, and as his children were growing up, he was a coach Doug’s Khoury League Baseball Team and Becky’s Softball Team.

Arrangements are under the direction of Bisch Funeral Home West 2931 S. Koke Mill Rd. Springfield, IL where a visitation will be on Sunday June 2, 2013 from 3-6 pm. A funeral service will be held at 10:00 am on Monday June 3, 2013 at Luther Memorial Lutheran Church 2600 S. 5th St. Springfield, IL with Rev. Bill Zanton officiating. Burial will follow in Oak Ridge Cemetery where the Inter-

Veterans Burial Detail of Sangamon County will provide military honors.

Those who wish may direct memorial contributions to the Luther Memorial Lutheran Church 2600 S. 5th St. Springfield, IL 62703 or a charity of choice.

Please visit the online “Life Remembered Story” at www.bischfuneralhomewest.com where tributes and condolences may be left for the family.