Wilbur Clay

Wilbur Clay, 81, of Morganton, NC passed away Friday, October 30, 2015 after a brief illness.  Born February 1, 1934 in Burke County, NC, he was a son of the late Ervin Moran Clay and Fannie Sanders Clay.  Wilbur was a US Army veteran, and a retired employee of Drexel-Heritage Furnishings with over 30 years of service.  He was a member and Past Master of Catawba Valley Masonic Lodge #217 and an honorary member of Lovelady Lodge # 670.  Wilbur was always piddling around: repairing small engines, working on wood stoves, gardening, and woodworking. 

He is survived by his wife, Jo Ann Cooke Clay of the home; a daughter, Glenda Clay Burgess and husband, Beau of Morganton; a grandson, Jacob Burgess; and a sister, Ruby Kiddy.

In addition to his parents, Wilbur was preceded in death by siblings, Velma Buchanan, Ervin Clay, Jr. and James H. Clay.

The family will receive friends Monday, November 2, 2015 from 12:00 until 1:30 pm at Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center.  The funeral service will begin at 1:30 pm in the Chapel with Rev. Ed Lawing officiating.  Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park with military honors conducted by the NC National Guard and Masonic rites conducted by members of Catawba Valley Masonic Lodge #217.  Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC  28690.