Dr. Leon A. Clay

Leon Astor Clay, born on November 7, 1933, in Enfield, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on December 19, 2024, in Newport, North Carolina. He was 91 years old.

Leon was the son of Astor Clay and Leona Harris Clay. He spent a few early years in Enfield, North Carolina before growing up in Gloucester, Virginia. A proud graduate of Virginia Tech, he earned a degree in Industrial Arts Education in 1954. Following his studies, Leon served in the United States Air Force, providing logistical support during the Korean War. His service took him to Illinois, New York, Virginia, Alaska, and Delaware.

Leon furthered his education with a master’s and doctorate in educational administration, which led to a distinguished career as an educator. He served as Vice Principal and Principal at schools in Delaware and Maryland. He spent the majority of his career as Dr. Clay, Principal of Sherwood High School in Olney, Maryland, from the early 1970s to 1983. Beloved by students and staff alike, Leon left a lasting impact on countless lives and maintained connections with former students and co-workers throughout his life.

After retiring from Sherwood, Leon worked various retirement jobs and volunteer activities, including construction and serving as a ferry boat captain. He purchased and traded many boats and cars throughout his life. He claimed all he wanted to do on retirement was “play golf and go fishing”, which he did a great deal of during his time at Brandywine Bay in Morehead City. He formed many deep friendships with golfing buddies, bridge partners, boating pals, and neighbors. Important among these were Ken and Angela Zieleck, his local chosen family, and Ed Slachta and Buzz Hayes, the other two of the “Three Musketeers”.

Leon was married to Mary G. Clay from 1954 until her passing in 2017. He was her fiercest advocate and lovingly cherished her throughout her battle with Alzheimer’s. In his later years, he spent many happy days enjoying the companionship of Vickie Tucker of Morehead City, who was by his side when he passed. 

Leon is survived by his children: David B. Clay of Morehead City; Robin L. Buckley (James) of Capon Bridge, West Virginia; Melanie C. Wright (Innes) of Boise, Idaho; and John G. Clay (Pamela) of Damascus, Maryland. He leaves behind five grandchildren—Christine Buckley (Elias McMannis), Katrina Wright, Julia Clay, Miranda Clay, Diana Clay, and two great- grandchildren (Vincent Buckley, Kesner McMannis), with one on the way.

While sometimes coming across as strict or stern, those who truly knew him understood his kind and compassionate nature, his loyalty to friends and family, and his ability to bring joy to those around him. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, it is the family’s request that memorial contributions be made in Leon’s name to educational charities of your choice.

Condolences and life tributes may be sent to the family at www.noebrooks.net

Arrangements by Noe-Brooks Funeral Home, Morehead City, NC.