Donald W. Clay II

Donald W. Clay II, a beloved figure in the Grand Ledge community, will be deeply missed after his passing on February 14, 2026, at home, surrounded by his loving family. Born on September 9, 1944, in Lansing, Michigan, Don was the son of the late Donald and Marguerite (Clark) Clay. He graduated from Grand Ledge High School in 1962, proudly served in the Marine Corps from 1962-1966, and dedicated a significant part of his career to auto sales at Crippen, later retiring from General Motors.

Don was known for his love of family and sense of humor. He loved to tease and if he was picking on you, you knew you were loved. Don cherished weekly golf outings at Centennial Acres and was a die-hard football fan, rooting for Grand Ledge, MSU and the Detroit Lions.

His best friend was his dog, Charlie. They were inseparable, going everywhere together. Many probably saw them on their daily walks around Grand Ledge. When they were no longer able to take those walks, they enjoyed daily rides in the truck, driving the country roads. Don never got over the loss of Charlie and looked forward to seeing him again at the end of the Rainbow Bridge.

Don will lovingly be remembered by his wife, Rita, daughters, Lisa (Brian) Shields and Angela (Bryan) Boughton and his cherished grandchildren, Clay (Christa) Harmon, BJ Shields (Andrea), Olivia Boughton, Ben Boughton and Addison Boughton; siblings Martha (Gordie) Woodman, Doug Clay, Dan Clay, Rob Clay, Mary Deuel, Theresa Monaco, Laura Clay and Becky (Tom) Martin; sister-in-law, Janet Clay. He was preceded in death by brother, Tom Clay, sisters-in-law, Janet and Dana, brother in-law Paul Monaco, nephew, Troy Woodman and niece, Cindy May.

The family will hold a memorial service to celebrate Don's life this summer and the details will be announced once they become available. All who knew him are welcome to join in sharing memories and honoring his legacy.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to the Capital Area Humane Society, 7095 W. Grand River Avenue, Lansing, Michigan 48906 (https://bit.ly/4lTktE9), which was dear to Don's heart. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories that will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. Arrangements by the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. Share your memories and condolences online at holihanatkin.com.