Richard Clay

Richard Lee Clay

March 14, 1959 to October 13, 2026

Richard Lee Clay was a cowboy through and through. Born on March 14, 1959, Richard lived his life with grit and a stubborn streak that anyone who knew him would recognize.

Rodeo was more than just something Richard enjoyed; it was a part of who he was. He had the heart of a cowboy, a love for the rodeo way of life, and an independent spirit that never faded. He believed in hard work, doing things his own way, and never backing down from a challenge. Sometimes he made things harder than they needed to be, but that was just Richard.

Richard spent his working years behind the wheel of a truck, putting in long hours and countless miles. Whether he was on the road or around the rodeo arena, he carried that same hardworking cowboy spirit with him.

Richard will be remembered for his strong will, his one of a kind personality, and the memories he made with the people who loved him. He was a man who lived life on his own terms, and his cowboy spirit will live on through the family and friends who knew and loved him.

Richard is survived by his loving wife, Angie; his children, Amanda (Jody), Gena, Lee (Melissa), and Jimmy (Allie); and his three sisters, Jerry Lynn Tripp, Paula Clay, and Lisa Clay.

He also leaves behind his 12 beloved grandchildren: Justin, Chase, Caden, Cyleigh, Jaycee, Chelbie, Scotty, Liam, Isaac, Wyatt, Waylon, Hayden, and Brayleigh, and his three great grandchildren: Emeri, Ellie, and Saige.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Jerry and Betty Clay; his three brothers, Bill Clay, Ronnie Clay, and Bobby Clay; and his two sons, JR and Steven.

Though Richard’s time here has come to an end, the memories he leaves behind and the cowboy spirit he carried throughout his life will never be forgotten.

Rest easy, cowboy. Your work here is done.                                                                                                                                                                        Funeral will be on Monday October 19, 2026 at 11:00 am and visitation will be on Sunday October 18, from 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm at the Van Natta Funeral Home in Herrin. The burial will be on Monday in the Herrin City Cemetery.