Peter Clay

Peter Maitland Clay, born on October 16, 1948, in Boston, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on January 24, 2025. He was the cherished son of Grady E. Clay Jr. and Nanine Hilliard Clay.

Peter spent his early years in Louisville, Kentucky, where he grew up running through the neighborhood with his two brothers, Grady and Ted Clay. These formative years were filled with adventure, curiosity, and a deep connection to his family, fostering the creative and determined spirit that would define his life.

Peter's life was a testament to creativity, devotion, and a profound appreciation for the natural world. Family was at the heart of everything he did. He made it a priority to bring loved ones together-whether for reunions, celebrations, or simple gatherings that strengthened bonds. He treasured his children, siblings, and friends, making every effort to stay connected and create lasting memories with them.

Peter pursued his passion for building and creating and embarked on a journey of self-discovery. His early life brought him to New York City, where he explored his love for the arts before returning westward to the landscapes that had shaped him during childhood summers in Montana and Colorado.

In the early 1970s, Peter worked at Arcosanti in Arizona, refining his craft in the desert heat and gaining invaluable experience at a bell foundry. By 1972, he made Colorado his home-first in Durango and later in McElmo Canyon. He devoted much of his professional life to serving as a county appraiser for La Plata County, earning respect for his dedication and meticulous work until his retirement.

Peter had a deep love for camping, jeeping, and exploring the unknown. The wilderness and open roads were his sanctuary-a place where he could reset and find clarity. Peter (like so much of his family) embraced a spirit of exploration, finding joy in discovering new places and sharing these experiences with others. Whether scaling mountains or navigating rugged trails, Peter's adventurous nature was infectious and inspired those around him.

Peter is survived by his wife and high school sweetheart, Susan D. Endicott; his daughter, Carrie Clay; his son, Johnathan Clay; with his former wife Lynne Clay; his step-son, Samuel Endicott, and daughter-in law Ciara Endicott; his beloved step- grandchildren, Avery Endicott and Addyson Hamberg; and his brother, Ted Clay and Colleen Horner and other beloved family members.

A memorial service celebrating Peter's life will be held in Durango, Colorado, on July 12th, 2025. Further details regarding the exact time and location will be announced at a later date. Please email caclay2003@yahoo.com to get updated on time and location. Should anyone like to leave Peter's family a message, you can visit https://www.forevermissed.com/peter-maitland-clay/about?short_code=WVY3RyOE

Peter's legacy of creativity, love for family, and enduring appreciation for nature will continue to inspire all who knew him. May his memory bring comfort to those who mourn his passing and joy to those who reflect on the remarkable life he lived.

"La joie de vivre - the joy of life," from a handwritten card on Peter's grandmother's makeup table, was a message Peter cherished and kept close to his heart throughout his life.