Charlaine C. Clay

Obituary For Charlaine C. Clay

Charlaine C Clay
February 7, 2026

Charlaine Clay, age 85, passed away peacefully at home in Romeoville, Illinois, on February 7, 2026. Born on June 30, 1940, in Chicago, Illinois, Charlaine lived a life defined by warmth, kindness, and a genuine love for people. She was the beloved daughter of Robert and Katherine Watson, both of whom preceded her in death, along with her brothers Paul and Bobby and her in-laws.

Charlaine was a proud graduate of Shoop Elementary School and Morgan Park High School in Chicago, foundations that supported a lifetime of dedication and hard work. Throughout her career, Charlaine served in several administrative roles, including positions at St. Leo Catholic Parish, Spiegel Catalog, J.C. Penney Company, and the Chicago Sun-Times. Her work ethic and friendly nature made her a valued colleague wherever she went.

Charlaine shared a loving marriage with her husband, Lemuel Clay, Jr., and together they built a family that remained at the center of her world. She is lovingly remembered by her children, Gary (Laura Pruss) and Debbie; her granddaughter Tiffany (Leroy Moore); her great-grandchildren Kyle, Aaliyah, Ryan, and Jaden; her great-great-grandchild Tajza; and her dear niece Karita. She found joy in travel and cherished the memories she made visiting places such as New York City, Key West, Lake Tahoe, and Honolulu. More than any destination, however, Charlaine treasured the people she met along the way. Known for her kindness, she truly never met a stranger. Her welcoming spirit left a lasting impression on everyone she encountered. Those who knew Charlaine will remember her gentle heart, her easy warmth, and the way she made others feel seen and appreciated. Her presence brought comfort and happiness to many, and her legacy lives on in the love she shared so freely.

Charlaine’s life was a celebration of compassion, connection, and family. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday. February 18th at Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 3501 Lincoln Highway, Matteson, IL 60443. Wake is at 10:00 AM, Funeral is at 11:00 AM with the Prepast (catered refreshments during the wake / visitation period prior to the services) beginning at 9:00 AM. Burial following the service at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, 20953 W Hoff Rd, Elwood, IL 60421. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Dementia Society of America (https://www.dementiasociety.org).

Service:

Wednesday, February 18, 2026
10:00AM - 12:00PM

Leak and Sons Funeral Home
3501 Lincoln Ave
Matteson, IL 60443

Send flowers to the service of Charlaine C. Clay