MARK E. CLAY, 46, of Winfield, Kansas, passed away Thursday evening, June 18, 2009 at Via Christi Regional Medical Center in Wichita.

Born on May 28, 1963 in Wichita, Kansas, he was the son of Saul A. and Viola M. (Lewis) Clay. He was raised and received his education in Wichita and graduated from North High School in 1981. He later attended Friends University. Mark was employed with USD #259 in Wichita as a para professional. He then was employed at Boeing Aircraft in the inspection department until his health began failing. In the late 90's, Mark moved to Winfield to be near family. He was employed at USD #465 for a short time as a para professional.

Mark was raised in the Catholic Church and later attended the Assembly of God, New Testament Baptist and DellRose United Methodist Churches where he was involved in their choirs. Mark loved singing at weddings and funerals and was a member of the Wichita Symphony.

His family includes:
His mother: Viola of Winfield, KS;
His brothers: Alan A. Clay and wife Rhonda of Gig Harbor, WA; and Paul L. Clay and wife Darla of Winfield, KS;
His sisters: Yasmeen Salahuddin and husband Abdul of Lamarque, TX; Jane Lafever of Winfield, KS; Saulette Omeke and husband Alex of Stafford, TX; Candyce Portley and husband David of Mulvane, KS; and Alana Williams and husband Malvin of Humble, TX;
His 24 nieces and nephews, 26 great nieces and nephews and a host of aunts, uncles and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his father, Saul in 2007; his brother Joseph D. Clay in 1974 and his sister, Saida Neal in 1990.

Graveside funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M., Friday, June 26, 2009 at Highland Cemetery in Winfield. A wake will be held at Miles Funeral Service at 7:00 P.M., Thursday, June 25, 2009.

A memorial has been established in Mark's name for the Bethel AME Church in Winfield. Contributions may be made through the funeral home.