A memorial service for Carla Fay (Allen) Clay, 67 of Cleburne, will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at the First Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church, located at 1005 Chase Avenue, Cleburne, Texas 76031, with Pastor Willie L. Stevenson officiating. Carla’s nephews are serving as honorary pallbearers: Kevin Peniger, Reggie Hardemon, Willie Hardemon, Jeremy Morgan, Tremaine Clay, Sadait Carr, and William Fuller.

Carla Fay Clay was born on January 9, 1959, in Cleburne, Texas, passed away on February 8, 2026, in Fort Worth, Texas. Carla dedicated her life to education, serving as a dedicated educator for over 30 years as a cosmetology instructor, impacting the lives of countless students with her passion and commitment to teaching.

She cherished the time spent with her family, especially her beloved grandchildren, nieces and nephews. "Thank you, Grandmother, for teaching us the lessons of grace, confidence, and powerful femininity" - Jamy Ray

Carla's passions extended beyond her family. She loved to travel and embark on shopping adventures, always eager to help others look and feel their best. Her commitment to her faith was evident in her active involvement with the First Mount Zion Baptist Church, where she found joy singing in the choir.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ezekiel Allen and Pauline (Davis) Allen; her former husband of 25 years, John M. Clay, four brothers, and two sisters.

Carla is survived by two sons, Justin Clay and Brandon Clay and wife, Dawn; her grandchildren, Jamy Ray, Jordan Lani Clay, Braeden Clay, Hannah Clay, Maxamas Clay, and a blessing on the way; sisters, Earlene Argo and her husband Raymond, Darlene McGill, Dorris Parker, and Mary Jefferson; her special close family member, Diane Edwards, and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to Monika Hardemon, our beloved niece and devoted caretaker.

Carla Fay Clay will be deeply missed, leaving behind a legacy of love and kindness that inspires all who knew her.