Caden Gene Clay

Born on February 27, 2005, Caden graduated from THE Prosper High School in 2023, where he was known for his infectious smile, kind heart, and unwavering dedication to both academics and sports. As a freshman at the University of Alabama, he was majoring in Sport Management and had completed his first year serving as a football equipment manager, a role he was passionate about and excited to continue in the future as he pursued a career in football operations. In just one year at Alabama, Caden was selected to be an ambassador for the College of Human and Environmental Sciences, was named to the Dean’s List in both semesters, and received the Council of Presidents’ Freshman Academic Achievement Award.

Caden was a best friend of Jesus from a very young age, and he found strength and guidance in his faith. He took every moment, big and small, to be the hands and feet of Jesus wherever he was. Whether it was starting a boy’s bible study at his middle school, serving others through Kids Prosper Kids, delivering drinks and snacks to workers around his neighborhood, organizing charity softball games for Prosper Education Foundation, or consistently wearing his beloved necklaces and bracelets that proudly displayed his love and faith in the Lord, he took any and every opportunity to tell others about his Jesus.

His testimony began the moment he was brought into this world. His first of many surgeries occurred the day after he was born on 02-28-05, the time proudly displayed on a timepiece given to him by his great-grandfather in the form of a tattoo on his chest. The ink on his chest and arm told the story of what he prioritized most. His first tattoo showcased the date he officially made Jesus the boss of his life through baptism. That was quickly followed by proud displays of his favorite verses, Joshua 1:9 and John 13:7. His unwavering faith is why he never questioned the many times he was knocked down in this life. He simply knew it was part of his story, which had been carefully and intentionally woven together for a purpose. “His plan, not mine” was one of the bracelets that he showcased on his wrist. He didn’t just wear it. He lived it.

His passion for sports was evident in everything he did, and it was where he learned some of life’s most valuable lessons, such as perseverance, grit, hard work, and the true value of relationships. Over the years, he was involved in soccer, basketball, wrestling, lacrosse, and hockey. However, his focuses quickly became baseball and football. His position as a Prosper Eagle defensive end #97 gave him some of his best lessons, memories, and friends. It also gave him the nickname, Slick, which he had already determined to be his next piece of body art. He also had a special talent for seeing things in unique ways and finding value in people and things that most others overlook. This led to his love of taking photos, specifically sports action shots, capturing the energy and excitement of every moment. He never did it for profit. He simply did it to share them with those he captured. Caden also used the sports platform to share his faith and love for Christ, building strong relationships that will live on forever.

Even from a young age, Caden demonstrated a remarkable sense of empathy and generosity. At just nine years old, he charged 50 cents to do small jobs, leaving the money under the Christmas tree for Santa to give to those in need. This spirit of selflessness and thoughtfulness defined his character and left a lasting impression on everyone around him.

His memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know him. Caden is survived by his parents, Billy and Heather Clay, his sister Kennedy Clay, and many other relatives and friends who loved him dearly. When adults speak of Caden, they speak of the dignity, respect, and grace he had for his elders that was far beyond his years.

A visitation will be held at Stonebriar Funeral Home 10375 Preston Rd., Frisco, Texas, on Friday, June 7, 2024, from 5pm to 7pm.

A service will be held at Citizens Church 4501 Legacy Drive, Plano, TX on Saturday, June 8, 2024, at 9:07am (the time is a tribute to his football number 97) to celebrate his life and the impact he had on those around him.

A procession to the burial site will be held following the service to Walnut Grove Cemetery 3717 North Custer Road, Prosper, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Caden's honor to Prosper Education Foundation (prospereducationfoundation.org) or Eagle Touchdown Club (prospereaglefootball.boosterhub.com) reflecting his passion for serving others and providing opportunities to further education and support athletics.

In celebration of Caden’s life, we ask that attendees come dressed in attire that reflects his favorite teams and alma maters. University of Alabama shirts, jerseys, or any Crimson Tide colors, apparel of the Dallas Cowboys, Dallas Stars, Dallas Mavs, Texas Rangers, or Prosper High School (green, white, and black). We kindly request NO ORANGE (Tennessee, University of Texas, Auburn) attire, as we honor Caden through the teams and schools that held a special place in his heart. Thank you for your understanding and for helping us celebrate Caden in a meaningful way.

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9