Clara Lay

Clara Lee (Nee Perry) Lay, 83, passed away on September 6, 2022 . Beloved daughter of the late Charles and Laura Perry.  Loving wife of the Late Kenneth R. Lay.  Caring mother of Randy Smith, Michael (Marie) Smith, Vickie Bruner, Sheri (Richard) Hursh, Candace Smith.   Dear grandmother of Tiana Smith, Zachary (Stephanie) Smith, Michael Smith, Jr., Amy Smith, Jeromy Smith, Marcus (Ashley) Combs, Tiffany (Thomas) Gruen, Nicholas (Crystal) Hursh, Matthew Hursh, the late Jason A. Smith, and 16 great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild. Loving sister of Boyd Perry, Norman Perry, Charles Ray Perry, Sandra Tucker, and the following deceased: Gladys Altimari, Georgia Renfro, Bradford Perry, Marilyn Covert, Linville Perry, and Loyd Perry.  She also leaves behind a host of beloved nieces, nephews, and dear friends.  Clara was a long-time member of the Little Country Missionary Baptist Church in Norwood and a resident of Norwood for more than 50 years. Clara worked many years at Hostess Bakery as well as Pierre Foods.  Clara dearly loved her family both near and far.  She enjoyed calling family 'down home' to chat and share news.  As the middle of the 11 siblings, she made it a point to stay connected and involved with everyone though she lived most of her life several hours north. She showered love on her children and grandchildren and took great pleasure in spending time with them at every opportunity.  When family gathered at Clara's home it was guaranteed to be filled with laughter, love, and a healthy dose of teasing.  Despite suffering years of declining health, Clara was the epitome of grace and dignity and was an amazing example of strength to all who knew and loved her. Family and friends may visit Tuesday, September 13, 2022 , from 11:00 AM until time of service at 12:00 Noon at Vorhis & Ryan Funeral Home, 5501 Montgomery Road, Norwood, Ohio 45212 .