Clarence Albey Nay Sr.

Clarence Albey Nay Sr., beloved husband, father, brother, and friend, peacefully returned to his Father in Heaven surrounded by family on Tuesday, April 2nd of 2019.  Clarence was born to William Levi Nay and Mary Venna Sherman on November 15, 1928 in Monroe, Utah.  He is preceded in death by both parents and two brothers (Delward and Leland).  He leaves behind his sweetheart and best friend Elida “Leah” Villarreal (whom he married on August 27, 1955), and his children, William Dion Nay (Jill), Clarence Albey Nay Jr. (Tari), Diona Lynn Nay, Donald Alan Nay (Shalon), Carole Dawn Nay Irwin (Douglas), and Joseph Lee Nay (Donna).  Along with many grandchildren and great grandchildren.  Also, his brothers Sherman, Mateland, Devon and sister Revoe Moss.

Clarence spent his childhood years in Southern Utah.  During his childhood, he was well known for his legendary pranks.  Deflating the tires on his car so he could drive onto the railroad tracks to get away from the police and disassembling the high school principal’s car and reassembling it on the roof of the school were just a few of the stories that he shared with his children (and his children did verify the truth of the stories).  Clarence always had time to share stories with his children and later with his grandchildren, many were unbelievable stories about his childhood, as well as, faith promoting and spiritual stories. Clarence believed that childhood was a precious and critical time for learning and took every chance he had to teach life lessons to the children in his life. His collection of stories and poems were seemingly endless.  Clarence had a story or a poem for literally every occasion.  He also took the time to teach them all the songs from his youth (even the ones his wife wished he wouldn’t teach the children).  Clarence continued to share stories and songs into the last week of his life.

As a young man, Clarence felt in his heart the desire to serve a mission.  He was called to serve in the Spanish America Mission.  This is where Clarence learned to speak Spanish.  As Clarence and Leah travelled the world, he served in many callings through his life, including Branch President and Ward Mission Leader.  The calling he seemed to enjoy the most was Ward Mission Leader.  Clarence loved to share the blessings of the gospel with all those he associated with.  His love for the Lord and for the scriptures was unending.  Clarence loved to challenge his children to test their knowledge of a variety of subjects including scriptures.

After honorably completing a three-year mission for the church Clarence was once again called to service but this time by his country.  He was immediately sent to Germany (in post-World War II Europe) as part of the US Army peace keeping troops.  Upon returning to the United States from Europe he met and courted his sweetheart Leah.  After a short time they were married.  After they were married, Clarence attend Utah State College and then returned to the military.  Clarence and Leah moved frequently as part of Clarence’s military service.  At most locations Clarence would seek part time work in the evenings and at night to ensure his family not only had what they needed but what they wanted.  Clarence was a selfless man dedicated to serving his fellow man.  This was demonstrated during his tour in Vietnam.  In 1969, Clarence received a Bronze Star for Valor for bravery under fire.  While his base was under attack, Clarence on many occasions, without regard for himself, ran into the open, amidst rounds striking all around him to carry the wounded to safe positions.  After he ensured the wounded were safe, he retrieved his weapon and returned fire repelling the enemy advance.  Clarence retired from the military in 1974.  After retiring from the military, he worked for Unisys for several years then retired.  After retiring from Unisys, he worked at Dugway Proving Grounds for several years then retired.  After retiring from Dugway, he worked at Home Depot until he was 80 years old then really retired.  Clarence enjoyed the last years of his life spending time with his grandchildren. 

Clarence will be remembered for two things:  First and foremost, as a man of great love for his family.  Family always came first.  Second, as a man of great service, service to his fellow man, service to the Lord, and service to his country.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am Thursday, April 11, 2019 at the Centerville 2nd Ward, 1475 North 50 East, Centerville, Utah. A viewing will be held from 9:30 – 10:30 am prior to the service at the church.  Interment at the Centerville City Cemetery.