James Reed Clay

James Reed Clay, formerly of Nashville, died on January 23, 2018, after a long struggle with heart disease. He is survived by his chosen life partner, Gary M. Russell, also of Atlanta and Nashville, and by his brother, John W. Clay, Jr., of Nashville.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, John W. Clay, Sr. and Eleanor Reed Clay. He was the grandson of James H. Reed, Jr. and Marie Temple Reed, of Nashville, and Clifford C. Clay and Zerelda Battle Martin, of Atlanta. Jim leaves many nieces and nephews, cousins and friends/ chosen family from Nashville, Atlanta and around the world.

Jimmy was a graduate of The University of Mississippi and was working as a V.P. at National Life and Accident Insurance Company in Nashville, before deciding to move to Atlanta, over 35 years ago. There he continued in the insurance industry and later as a real estate investor. His life in Atlanta was entwined with many cousins and devoted friends, especially with the community of All Saints’ Episcopal Church. Jimmy’s community of given family, cherished friends, neighbors and those he called chosen family, were dear to him in all aspects of his life. He was a man of faith and his extended family wishes to thank the community of All Saints’ Church for their unyielding love, care and devotion.

Jim was known for his great sense of humor, his mischievous smile and his quick wit. He was a good brother, a great friend, a fine uncle and a devoted partner. Jim will be missed by all who knew him. He held his friendships deeply as he loved everyone and everyone loved him. He was one of the most dignified, generous, handsome and kindly men ever, and maybe one of the last great gentlemen of the South.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, February 9th at 11:00 am at All Saints’ Episcopal Church, followed by a reception in Ellis Hall. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that remembrances be directed to All Saints’ Episcopal Church in memory of Jim Clay, 634 West Peachtree St., Atlanta, GA 30308.