February 1, 1926 - June 14, 2024
Elnora "Jean" Clay was born Feb. 1, 1926 to parents John K. Seibel and Antonella {Simmet} in Carrington, North Dakota. She was the 7th child of 11. She settled in Lodi after traveling by car in 1929. She enjoyed roller skating as a teenager and would travel to Stockton by bus with her sister, Mary. They would sing on the bus because of no radio and the driver would let them ride free because he enjoyed their singing so much. She was married to Leland Fortner Sr. in 1946 after meeting him at the skating rink while he served in the Navy. She gave birth to her son, Leland W Fortner Jr in 1948 and a daughter, Marla J Fortner in 1950. Following a divorce she then met a wonderful man that she was deeply in love with, Nathan G Clay Jr. on Feb 20, 1955. The two were blessed with a son, Bret A.Clay in 1959. Their marriage lasted 42 years until "Clay's" passing in 1998. Her nickname was "Honey" by her siblings and other family members because of breaking her leg as a small child. Mom enjoyed music, and enjoyed laughing along with her "off the wall" jokes. She entertained her doctors, nurses and care givers under all circumstances up until the day before she passed, singing with her caregivers. She is survived by her son Lee Fortner (Susan) of Stockton and Marla Rainwater (Bob) of Florida. One brother John L Seibel (JoAnne) of Lodi and grandchildren; Paul, Carianne, Rebecca, Derek, Rob, Nathan and Amanda. She leaves 9 great-grand children as well as 4 great-great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband Clay, their son Bret and grandson David. In leu of flowers the family requests donations be made to Bristol Hospice of Stockton, CA.
VISITATION
A visitation will be held from 4:00pm - 7:00pm on Sunday, June 30th, 2024 at the Vineyard Chapel in Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 N. Beckman Road, 95240.
SERVICE
A service will be held at 1:00pm on Monday, July 1st, 2024, at the Vineyard Chapel in Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 N. Beckman Road, 95240.
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Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Clay family.