She was born in Springfield, June 11, 1932 the daughter of Harry and Alice May (Haycraft) Ehlert. She married William H. “Bill” Clay December 29, 1956 and he preceded her in death on May 31, 2013.
Jacque was a graduate of Springfield High School and Hay Edwards Grade School.
She retired after 40 plus years of service as a legal secretary from the Illinois State Bar Association. She was a longtime member of Luther Memorial Lutheran Church ELCA, which later became Peace Lutheran Church, ELCA where she served on various committees and groups. She volunteered for many years at the Grace Food Pantry, and was a charter member of the Elks Ladies Auxiliary. Jacque enjoyed playing bridge, bowling, golfing, ceramics, and crafting. She loved spending time with her family and friends, and was especially devoted to her granddaughters.
Surviving are her children: Doug Clay of Springfield, IL, Becky (Bruce) Race of Pleasant Plains, IL, two granddaughters; Ashley Race of St. Charles, MO and Stephanie Race of Scottsdale, AZ, her bother Donald (Sue) Ehlert of Iowa Park, TX and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, three brothers: Edwin “Bud” Ehlert, Harry “Red” Ehlert and Robert “Bobby” Ehlert, and two sisters; Dorothy Lorenzini and Helenann Young.
Arrangements are in the care of Bisch Funeral Home West 2931 S. Koke Mill Rd. Springfield, where the family will greet friends and family from 6-8 pm Thursday, July 21, 2022. Graveside services will be held in Oak Ridge Cemetery Friday, July 22, 2022 at 10 am with Pastor Mary E Zupansic officiating.
The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the Mill Creek Alzheimer’s Special Care Center where she spent her last 5 years for their loving care.
In lieu of flowers, those who wish may direct memorial contributions to the Alzheimer’s Association, 2309 W. White Oaks Drive, Suite E, Springfield, IL 62704 or Peace Lutheran Church, 2800 W. Jefferson Street, Springfield, IL 62702.
Please visit the online “Life Remembered Story” at www.bischfuneralhomewest.com where tributes and condolences may be left for the family.
