Fredric Martin Clay Jr.

Frederick Martin Clay Jr., 77, passed away peacefully on April 3, 2026. He was born on February 11, 1949, in Indianapolis, Indiana, to Frederick Clay Sr. and Mary Alice Clay, and later made his home in San Jose, California.

Frederick proudly served his country as a Vietnam veteran in the United States Air Force. He was stationed at Da Nang Air Base with the 366th Supply Squadron, where he served as a Staff Sergeant. During his time in service, he earned several honors, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Air Force Longevity Service Award, and the Vietnam Armed Forces Campaign Medal, reflecting his dedication and commitment.

Frederick will be remembered for his quiet humor and the special moments he shared with his family. One memory that will always be cherished is from a family visit a few years ago. After saying he was heading to the gym, he later turned up at the Oakridge Mall food court, sitting on a bench enjoying ice cream. When his family found him, it brought laughter to everyone, and he joked that “going to the gym” was his code for getting ice cream. From that day on, it became a family saying—whenever someone suggests going to the gym, it means it’s time for ice cream.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara Clay, and his parents, Frederick Clay Sr. and Mary Alice Clay.

Frederick is lovingly remembered by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who brought him immense pride and joy, as well as his nieces and nephews and extended family who will continue to honor his life and legacy.

He will be deeply missed, and his memory will live on in the laughter, love, and the simple moments—like a shared ice cream—that brought his family together.