Vernon E. Clay, Jr. was born on July 29, 1968, and entered this world with a force of nature--so much so that family members often joked that he brought in an earthquake later that year. From the very beginning, Vernon lived life with strength, determination, and a presence that could never be ignored.

Affectionately known as "Tonto," a nickname lovingly given to him by his Uncle Lavell Clay, Vernon was also known in his younger days as "Big Friday" and the "Overweight Lover." Regardless of what name you knew him by, one thing remained constant: his loving heart, infectious smile, and genuine care for others.

Vernon possessed the very best qualities of both of his parents. He was kind, sweet, and gentle like his mother and proud, hardworking, and determined like his father. Though her lost his beloved mother at an early age, he never allowed that loss to hinder his growth or diminish his purpose. Instead, he carried the values instilled in him by his parents throughout his life, always striving to make them proud.

Vernon was a proud alumnus of Dunbar Elementary School and a graduate of Lincoln High School Class of 1968. After attending State Community College for two years, he began a career dedicated to helping others. He worked for many years as a patient transporter at Touchette Regional Hospital, later became a railcar repairman with Metro East Industries, Inc., and eventually returned to healthcare, concluding his career at Beverly Farms Foundation in Godfrey, Illinois.

A born-again Christian, Vernon was raised in the Centreville Church of Christ and later became a devoted member of The Faith House in O'Fallon, Illinois, under the leadership of Pastor Willie D. Brown. There he faithfully served as what many lovingly called "The World's Greatest Greeter." He had a special gift for making everyone feel welcome, seen, and appreciated.

Vernon had a servant's heart. He proudly served as volunteer firefighter for more than ten years and was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. Whether feeding the hungry, encouraging a neighbor, or simply sharing a smile. Vernon's legacy is one of faith, service, kindness, laughter, and love. He touched countless lives through his generosity, compassion, and unwavering commitment to family and community. His smile, stories, and gentle spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Vernon enjoyed his life to the fullest. Some of his favorite pastimes were spending time with family, hunting/eating wildlife, and especially fishing. Although he overly enjoyed these hobbies, nothing compared to his biggest catch which was when he met and married his loving and committed wife, Cinique (Cece) Turner-Clay. Family meant everything to Vernon. He was a devoted and loving husband, father, and grandfather. He treasured every opportunity to spend time with family by sharing wisdom, telling stories, and creating lasting memories. His presence will forever be missed.

Vernon was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Willie Mae Clay; his father, Vernon E. Clay, Sr.; his brother, Derrick Rushing; his son, Courtney Staten; his brother-in-law, Tyris Suggs; his aunts, Bertha Bell, Mary Clay, Jeanette Hand, Ronella Jones, Phillis Oliver, Annie Ross; his uncles, Horace Clay, Jr., Lavell Clay, Michael Clay, Thomas Clay, Lawrence Hand, William Bufford Wade, and his cherished friends, Bernard Robinson and Thomas Brantley.

Vernon leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife, Cinique-Turner-Clay; his beloved daughters, Donneshia Holton, LaShonda Clay, and Shakari Dorsey; his treasured grandchildren, Kaius Scott, Kyrin Holton, Je'Zuri Clay, and Kross Staten; his devoted siblings, Catherine Suggs, Terry Clay, and plus siblings, Andre Golden, Reginald Robinson, Mark Rushing, and Loretta Rushing-Brown; his nephews, Laron Arnold, Maurio Suggs, Myles Turner, Anthony White, and DeMonie White; his nieces, Andrea Arnold, Khyla Arnold, Tyra (Javier) Duren, Gavyn Turner, Lennox Turner, and Antanette White; his great nieces and great nephews; and a host of loving aunts, Tennie Cannon, Lorene Floyd, Brenda Gathing, Remonia Jemison, and Carolyn Oldham; a loving uncle, Charles Clay, and a host of cousins, extended family and friends.