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Clay Colson Obituary
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Clay Gilman Colson, born February 26, 1955, died at his home in Land O'Lakes, Florida February 22, 2023. Clay was the elder son and second eldest of 7 children born to David Lyle Colson and Helen Patricia ("Patsy") Posey. A 1973 graduate of Tampa Catholic High School, he spent his early work years as a mechanic before finding his true calling and passion – environmental/community activist. Founding member and former board chair of Pasco County Citizens for Sanity, Clay devoted himself to preserving our delicate ecosystems for future generations. Whether it was opposing unbridled development that threatened native species or working to keep our waterways unpolluted, Clay was a seemingly tireless advocate for all God's creation. The twin themes of Peace and Justice for our world permeated all Clay's thoughts and actions. He lived out the Old Testament prophet Micah's understanding of what is required of each of us: "Do justice, love kindness and walk humbly with your God". Throughout his life, he shared his home with an endless array of dogs, cats, chickens and horses. For relaxation he enjoyed a cerebral game of chess. As much as he loved playing the game, he delighted in teaching chess at the Lutz Public Library to anyone willing to learn.
Clay was preceded in death by his parents and his nephew, Luke Colson Carlisle. He is survived by his "Irish twin" older sister, Sharon (Jack) Carlisle, sisters Pamela (Donald) Strobeck, Elaine (Rick) Powers, Melissa Colson and Trish (Jim) Amerosa, and brother, Brian (Mary) Colson; 11 nieces and nephews (Audrey Strobeck, Erin Carlisle Tighe, Jessica Strobeck Hudacko, Emily Carlisle Agarwal, Lee Strobeck, Victoria Colson, Alexis Amerosa, Dominique Amerosa, Jericho Colson, James Amerosa and Sarah Colson) and 9 great nieces and nephews (Charlie & Sammy, Audrey; Zachary & Tristan, Jessica; Molly & Maggie, Erin; Elyssa, Emily; Lilikoi & Evelyn, Lee).
A Celebration of Life is planned for Sunday, March 5, at Hungry Harry's Lake House, 3116 Land O' Lakes Blvd, Land O' Lakes, FL 34639, at 1:30 pm. Reception to follow on site.
Please plan to join the family as they honor the life of their brother and uncle.
Clay's ashes will be scattered at a place beloved by him, Brian and their father – the Ocala National Forest Lake Delancy at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be directed to Rags to Riches Animal Rescue Inc, a 501c3 charity formed by Clay's niece, Dominique, dedicated to the rehabilitation, rescue and adoption of abandoned/neglected creatures (VENMO: ragstorichesnanimalrescueinc; PayPal: dominiqueamerosa.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Clay Colson, please visit Tribute Store
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Elizabeth F
December 25, 2024
I will always remember Clay for his genuineness and transparency an loyal friend, an how his heart was open to any that he could help , an the way he could make you smile .
Gary "Killer Rat" Rosas
November 22, 2024
Here it is November 2024, and I somehow ran across this. This is heartbreaking to me. I worked with and for Clay in the early seventies and was blessed with being close to him and his whole family! We were family at Colson Texaco and some of my fondest memories in my life were made there! I wished I would have caught up to him before his passing! I feel like I lost a piece of my life! Pam, Elaine, and Brian I think the same of you guys! Such a big part of me growing up. Thanks, you guys. Rest in Peace Clay. I loved you like a brother!
John Shea
October 10, 2023
I wish to extend my condolences to Clays family and friends. We attended TC together. I have great memories of those times together. RIP
Dan and Anni Callaghan
March 6, 2023
Clay will not be forgotten for his speaking truth to power, his defense of our green areas, his fight against wars, and his grace and good humor in all things. One of the most unique and endearing human beings I have ever known.
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Marc Yacht, MD
March 6, 2023
I was saddened to learn of Clay's passing. He was a fierce advocate for his beliefs and I respected that. His voice will be missed.
Mary Frances Radcliff
March 5, 2023
Sharon, Pam, Elaine, Brian, Melissa and Trisha
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Clay. It was wonderful reading of Clay´s accomplishments especially his care and love for animals.
Rest In Peace Clay
Karen Pitisci
March 5, 2023
To all of the Colson family. So sorry for the loss of Clay ( brother, uncle , etc) He was unique, interesting, intelligent and a individual who stood for what he believed in .
Elizabeth Farwell
March 4, 2023
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Clay was a very genuine person an friend, he stood an fought for what was right an for those most vulnerable, God's creatures, he was their voce , he cared for them dearly.As a friend you could not ask for a more loyal friend on this earth. I am thankful for the friendship I shared with him.
My most sincere condolences to his family.
Diane Jimenez
March 2, 2023
I am so very sorry to hear this. Clay was a buddy all through school, quirky as he was. To know him was to love him. Rest in peace, my friend. My condolences to the family.
Paul Hinton
March 2, 2023
Oh my I am so sorry to hear this! Prayers to all!
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