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Peter Clay Obituary

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 [email protected] 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.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Durango Herald on Jan. 30, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Peter Clay

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Grove of 100 Memorial Trees

Ted Clay

Planted Trees

David F Fountain

February 8, 2025

I was fortunate to work with Peter for several years at the Assessor's Office in the early 90s. Such a smart and kind person!

Dana

February 7, 2025

Peter wax the sweetest! Dana ivers

Mark Chapin

February 3, 2025

I worked with Peter for a number of years at the La Plata County Assessors office. We lived nearby when he was on CR 250. Peter was always great, it was a pleasure to see him at various assessment functions and schools. He made a difference in the world. I am so sorry for your loss.

Helen

February 1, 2025

Cuz,

Wow, how much fun have we had through the years??!!! Louisville, grandparents, Durango and the crazy parties, weddings, funerals, family gatherings, Kentucky Derby´s, Fowler Hilliard Hut, Denver, Mesa, Oregon, California and so much more.

You have always had my back and been an older brother to me. We have laughed together, been goofy together and cried together. Your support and love for me has been tangible and undeniable. I will never forget you giving me one of Gings rings which in turn I passed on to family.

You gave of yourself freely to friends and family and were always positive, kind and loving.

I just can´t believe you have entered another universe. We are all so sad, but you have left us with a lifetime of memories. I am so grateful for all the time and love we shared.

How would I describe your life? A southern gentleman who would give you the shirt off his back and provide you with endless comfort, joy and love. I will miss you so much, Peter. Fly free cousin. Say hi to the others. Until we meet again, I love you!!

Carrie Woodson

January 31, 2025

I worked with Peter at the Assessor's office for many years. I consider him my mentor. His love of all things Snowdown will be missed. We had a lunch date for today......
Peter was a wonderful father raising Carrie and John as their primary parent. How wonderful they are is a testament to the great job he did as their father.
Peter was famous for his green chili, that was a bit different every time he made it! When we traveled for work we had to find the best local Mexican Restaurant, he loved it spicy!
The work he did for the Assessors office we still use on a daily basis, and we talk about him like he just retired yesterday. I loved you my dear friend and will remember you always! I have your Snowdown shirt and hat waiting for you!

Davitt M. Armstrong

January 31, 2025

You´re a good man, Peter. I´ll never forget our shopping expedition to Juarez so many years (decades!) ago; an impromptu poker game in Vail; climbing the escarpment behind your place in McElmo ... pretty rich, right? Pretty rich!
Dav

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