Wil CLAY

Dear Family, I met Wil here in Birmingham. He visited our library for a book tour we call Alabama Bound. He gave me two of his illustrations as a gift, I still have them. He was a nice man and I share your sorrow and pain. May God guide you through this difficult time.

Robert Jones
Birmingham Public Library

Dear Michael and Family:
We will all miss Wil's presence, love, joyful and colorful imagination. Michael you asked me to remind you about what we spoke about at the Museum service. I look forward to sharing it with you.

When I first met Wil and saw how talented he was, I wanted to share my children's story with him about music, called "My Notes". When I did, he loved the story and saw my vision of creating a series based on the global and inclusive nature of the stories. I...

To the Clay Family we are sorry for your lost, and the comminity's lost of a very earnest person who was sincere in his endeavors..Much Love ...Betty Amison, Grace Community Center..

From a Novice to a Great who just was passing thru. Mr. Wil Clay it was a pleasure to know you. Words you brought to life when you told other's stories but now someone must pen truths about your glories. I seen you last on Christmas Day not knowing it was a farewell and a prayer to encourage me as I left your presence on my way. To the Family be blessed in knowing this life was lived to the fullest on this side and he is with Jesus now and you will see him again. He was so much like the...

To my friend and Brother, may God bless your family with my deepest sympathy.You will truly be missed. Your friend and Sister Karol.

Wil's presence was always such a joy. His enthusiatic smile and willingess to teach his art through storytelling was a true spiritual gift. I will miss seeing him during visits to the Black Heritage Library in Findlay, Ohio and in and about the Toledo area. He was a quiet but unassuming person who was full of personal and cultural pride. Our community, schools and others, including children and adults are grateful for his variety of teachings though the years. Doris Greer (Toledo, OH

Wil we grew up together as cousins but you were a great friend and brother. I wanted to add another one of your handsome photos of younger years and at a time you shared with family in Chicago. We will never forget your warm smile and generous talents you shared with the world. Love is forever. Vivian, better known by Wil and called Cousin 'Delores'. Thanks Wil!

A wonderful, warm, highly talented, happy man Wil Clay....it was an honor and pleasure to know him, respect him. Wil lives on in his bountiful body of colorful, story-telling drawings and paintings. I'll miss him and his beautiful artwork.....my heart and prayers go out to all of his family and close friends.