Clay Smith Wright, 95, of Assisted Living at Evergreen, Collins Ferry Road, Morgantown, passed away on Monday, May 19, 2008, at Monongalia General Hospital, unexpectedly.

Clay was born October 28, 1912 in Newton, Roane County, WV, the only son of the late George Addison Wright and Mary Florence Keen Wright.  Clay was the last surviving member of his family.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Bess, Katie, Maude, Doris, Janie, Gladys and Sharlie.

Two children survive Clay, Lanita Jane “Nicki” Messenger of Morgantown and Gary “Joe” Wright and daughter-in-law, Connie Zimmerman of Medina, OH; five grandchildren, Terry of Morgantown, Jay and wife Carla of McLean, VA, Melanie McKelvey and husband Johnny of Lyndhurst, OH, Anita Russell and husband Craig of Palm Springs, CA, Krista Wright of Freemont, OH; two step grandchildren, Keith Zimmerman of Nevada and Scott Zimmerman of Ohio.  He was also blessed with seven great grandchildren and five great great grandchildren.

He was married to Nell Edith White on December 29, 1936, who preceded him in death, October 7, 1998.  They had over 50 wonderful years together. They lived in Newton, Cottageville and Parkersburg.  Edith and Clay spent several years retired and relaxed in Ft. Myers, FL.  Clay was an Army veteran of World War II, serving with the 19^th Armored Division in France and Germany. 

He worked many years at Kaiser Aluminum, Ravenswood and also worked as a part time plumber in Cottageville.  He was a Baptist; he loved the Lord and spent many years serving his community and church.

Clay is also survived by the staff and many friends he had at Assisted Living at Evergreen.  The family will always be grateful for the love and care he received during his years at Evergreen.

To honor his wish, he will be cremated.  A graveside service will be held Saturday, May 24 at 2:00 p.m. in the Clover Cemetery, Clover, with the Rev. Ron Fisher officiating. “Taps” will be accorded by the American Legion Post 21, Spencer.

John H. Taylor Funeral Home, Spencer, is in charge of arrangements.