Reverend Charles G. Clay

Reverend Charles G. Clay, age 75, of Chase City, Virginia, affectionately known as "Pop" or "Poppa" by his family, bid this Earthly world farewell on Saturday, February 25, 2023. "Amazing Grace, his chains are gone, he's been set free." His death follows a lengthy battle against multiple illnesses stemming from his exposure to Agent Orange while serving his country in Vietnam.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charlie and Sallie Clay, as well as his three brothers, Austin, Ray and Billy.

Charles graduated from Weldon High School in Weldon, North Carolina in June of 1966. Two days later he married his high school sweetheart and best friend, Kalen Haskins and enlisted in the United States Air Force. Though he had to leave his new bride behind, he was proud to serve his country with tours of duty in the Philippines, Vietnam, Germany and South Carolina.

Soon after his discharge from the service, he answered God's calling into full time ministry. He faithfully answered this calling as an "old fashioned Baptist preacher" for 35 years. He served multiple churches in North Carolina and Virginia. During the latter years of his ministry, he also served as a Chaplain for the city of Chesapeake, Virginia and the Chase City Fire Department. When he retired due to failing health, he was working as a Chaplain and Rehabilitation Counselor for the Virginia Department of Corrections.

His academic achievements include a B.A. Degree in Religion from Campbell University in Buies Creek, North Carolina, a Master of Divinity Degree from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, North Carolina and a Master's Degree in College and Community Counseling from Longwood University in Farmville, Virginia. This list of accomplishments may seem impressive, but to him, his greatest accomplishment was his family which he cherished.

His gentle nature will be sorely missed by those who knew and loved him. Only Heaven's angels know the number of lives that were touched by his selflessness, love, and profound kindness.

Left behind to cherish and celebrate his life and legacy are his wife of 56 years, Kalen Clay; his sons, Chuck (Stephanie) and Jon (Monica); and his daughter, Jennie (Jeremy). He leaves behind four granddaughters, Shelby (Connor), Abbie, Vanessa, and Lizzie. Also left behind to grow and learn to cherish his legacy are four "great-grans," Kensleigh, Wyatt, Jace and Spencer; and last but certainly not least, his beloved little poodle Penelope (Miss P) who was his constant companion.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Tuesday, February 28, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. at Antioch Baptist Church. Interment with Military Honors will follow in the church cemetery. Following the service, a reception will be held in the church's fellowship hall. There will be no formal visitation but the family will be receiving family and friends at his home.

"Well done, my good and faithful servant! Enter into the joy of your Lord." -Matthew 25:23

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.newcomballgoodfh.com. Newcomb Allgood Funeral Home in Chase City, Virginia will be handling the arrangements.