David B Clay

David Bryan Clay, born on January 6, 1959, in Norfolk, Virginia, passed away peacefully on September 11, 2026, in Newport, North Carolina.

David was the son of Leon Clay and Mary Garrett Clay. He grew up in Rockville, Maryland and attended Sherwood High School. He played the cornet in the band, wrestled, and mastered the trade of printing. He also spent many happy summers with his grandparents, Astor and Leona Clay, in Gloucester, Virginia. In his early work career, he spent a brief time in the US Navy, worked in newspaper printing and in construction trades. He lived his adult life in Gloucester, Virgina, Las Vegas, Nevada, and Hubert, NC. He spent the bulk of his working career in fiberglass finishing in New Bern, NC for White River Marine Group and other boat builders.

David was an avid fisherman, spending many hours chasing fish in the waterways of Virginia and North Carolina. He worked with his grandfather fishing crab pots and spent many happy afternoons fishing with his dad, friends, and on his own. David was known for his charm, intelligence, and everlasting sense of humor.

David is survived by his brother and two sisters: John G. Clay (Pamela) of Damascus, MD; Robin L. Buckley (James) of Capon Bridge, West Virginia; and Melanie C. Wright (Innes) of Moab, Utah. He leaves behind five nieces: Christine McMannis (Elias), Julia Clay, Miranda Clay (Brian Meadows), Diana Clay, and Katrina Wright. David is fondly remembered by his family and his friends. In his final years, he relied on wonderful home health caregivers, who came to know his charm and sense of humor and shared lots of fun and laughter with him.

In lieu of flowers, it is the family's request that memorial contributions be made in David's name to a charity of your choice.

Condolences and life tributes may be sent to the family at www.noebrooks.net

Arrangements by Noe-Brooks Funeral Home, Morehead City, NC.