Clay Durrett, 84, of Murphy, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, Sept. 10, 2022.
He was a native of Plant City, Fla., and had lived in Zephyrhills, Fla., for many years.
While in high school, he was active in the Future Farmers of America organization. Following his graduation from the University of Tampa, Clay worked in the hardware business, eventually becoming owner and operator of two Ace Hardware stores, one in Zephyrhills and the other in Westly Chapel, Fla.
Clay later took a position as plant manager with the Pasco County School Board, ensuring that the school was maintained and well ran. He worked for the school system for 25 years until his retirement.
In 2003, Clay moved to Murphy, where he was a member and deacon at Murphy First Baptist Church. He volunteered at the Sparrow’s Nest at the church, and also volunteered at the fish hatchery, where he took part in fishing days for the youth and those who were disabled.
He was the son of the late Henry Clay Sr. and Mary Elizabeth Wiggins Durrett. He was also preceded in death by one sister, Linda Sanders.
Surviving are his wife of 48 years, Sandy Durrett; three sons, Darryl Durrett and wife Darla of Zephyrhills, Fla., Brian Storey and wife Nevada of Raleigh, and Keith Storey of Pooler, Ga.; one brother, Ray Durrett and wife Faye of Murphy; four grandchildren, Andrea Jones and husband Michael, April Durrett and fiance Albert, Jasmine Harris and husband Galens, and Nicholas Storey; and two great-grandsons, Carson and Brent Jones. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 14, at Murphy First Baptist Church with the Rev. Jimmy Tanner officiating.
The family will receive friends from 10-10:50 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 14, at Murphy First Baptist Church.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made in memory of Clay Durrett to Gideons International, P.O. Box 164, Murphy, NC 28906.
Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, is in charge of arrangements.
An online guest register is available at www.iviefuneralhome.com.