Henry Leonard (III) Clay

Henry “Hank” Leonard Clay III passed away peacefully on August 8,2024 at the age of 82. On June 13, 1942, in Huntington, West Virginia, he was born to Henry L. Clay Jr. and Elizabeth Harshbarger Clay. In 1952, Hank’s family moved to DeLand, Florida, where he spent his formative years. A proud graduate of DeLand High School, Hank went on to attend the University of Florida and Stetson University. In the spring of 1964, Hank followed a calling to serve his country by entering the Naval Aviation Cadet program. By July 1965, he was commissioned and designated as a Naval Aviator, beginning a distinguished military career that would span over two decades. In 1965, Hank married his first wife, Mary E. Sanks, with whom he raised two daughters, Yvonne and Laura. Hank was a devoted husband and father, always finding time to be involved in his daughters’ lives despite his demanding career. He coached them in softball, volleyball, and basketball, instilling in them the values of teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship. In 1989, Hank married Karen. With Karen, Hank gained two stepsons, Jeff and Scott. Hank’s service to the nation took him on numerous deployments and assignments, reflecting his deep sense of duty and honor. His early military career included an assignment to HC-2 at Naval Air Station, Lakehurst, NJ, with deployments on the USS Saratoga (1966) and USS Forrestal (1967, 1968). His commitment to excellence led him to Naval Air Station, Key West, FL, in December 1968, and then to the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, CA, where he earned a Master of Science in Financial Management in 1970. In 1972, Hank joined the Light Airborne Multi-Purpose System (LAMPS) community at HSL-30 in Lakehurst, NJ, eventually becoming Officer-in-Charge of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron. Following the squadron’s move to Norfolk, VA, in 1973, Hank led Detachment Four during its first SH-2F extended deployment aboard the USS W.S. Sims, showcasing his leadership and dedication to the mission. His career continued to ascend as he served as Air AWS Officer with the staff of Commander Cruiser Destroyer Group 8 in 1977. In 1979, Hank became the Executive Officer of HSL-34 and later the Commanding Officer, where his leadership was instrumental in shaping the squadron's success. He also served as the Air Boss on the USS Nassau, ensuring the safety and effectiveness of flight operations during a critical period. In 1987, Hank returned to Monterey, CA, where he served as the Comptroller at the Naval Postgraduate School, managing the institution's financial operations with the same meticulous care he brought to every role in the 26 years of his Navy career. After retiring from the Navy, Hank moved back to DeLand, FL, where he continued his passion for aviation by flying for ComAir, Delta Connection until his official retirement in 2002. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Hank was a man of many passions. He loved music and was a gifted singer, lending his voice to the church choir for many years. His faith was a central part of his life, and he took great joy in teaching adult Sunday School classes, where he shared his insights and inspired others in their spiritual journeys. In addition, he was a member of the West Volusia Military Officers Association and a member of the American Legion Post 6. He was dedicated to maintaining his health through cycling and road racing, often participating in events that challenged him both physically and mentally. His commitment to recreational motor home camping was an inspiration to those around him. Hank is survived by his beloved wife Karen, his daughters Yvonne and Laura (Beth), his stepsons Jeff (Gina) and Scott (Heidi), his nephews, Sean and Collin (Dawn) Lapides, and his grandchildren, Olivia, Kip, & Connor. He will be forever remembered for his kindness, wisdom, and the deep love he had for his family and community. A very special thank you is extended to the staff at Brookdale DeLand and Vitas Hospice for the care and love they showed Hank during his time of residency. A service will be held at Oakdale Cemetery in DeLand, FL at a later time. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Military Association ROTC Scholarship Fund in honor of Hank’s lifelong commitment to service. That address is WVMC, ℅ T. Davis, 3355 Tesoro Cir., New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168. Allen Summerhill in charge.

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