Donnie Clay passed away August 21, 2026, after a brief illness. He was home, surrounded by his three children, and his niece, who were also his caretakers.

Donald "Donnie" Frederick Clay was born on May 2, 1943, to the late Sidney Clay and Betty Shook Clay. He was also proceeded in death by his granddaughter Celsea, his wife Brenda, and then his partner Nancy.

Donnie leaves behind a loving family who adored him and will cherish his memory. He is survived by his daughter, Tonya Steiert (Mike), daughter, Monica Rhea (Trent), son, Jason Clay (Cheri), niece, Carrie Jennings (daughter Ashley Hill), sister, Diana Bailey (Melvin and daughter Brandi Cleveland), and good friend, Francis Crisp.

Donnie has 11 grandchildren who loved their Poppa very much and he loved them immeasurably: Clay Reitmeier (Brandi), Bethany Durden (Levi), Austin Reitmeier (Nicole), Seth Steiert, Kaylin Rhea (Wesley), Kenzi Steiert, Trevor Rhea (Katie), Analee Webb (Jacob), Ellie Clay, Lawson Clay, and Josh Clay.

Donnie also has 11 great grandchildren whom he adored and they dearly love him: Cooper Durden, Ivy Reitmeier, Keaton Reitmeier, Sawyer Durden, Rhett Steiert, Luke Steiert, Callie Durden, Addie Thomas, Reid Thomas, Laurel Thomas, and Charlotte Russ.

Donnie married the love of his life, Brenda, and was a devoted husband for 26 years until cancer took her away. Years later he was reintroduced to his high school sweetheart, Nancy, and they fell in love and were together for 12 years until cancer took her away. Donnie told friends that most people never find true love, but he was lucky to have found it twice.

Donnie attended Blanton Business college in Atlanta after high school. Donnie was a veteran who served his country in the Army National Guard for over 8 years. He was a "jack of all trades" which included a plumber and electrician. He built houses, owned two restaurants, and installed satellite systems.

Donnie always had a love of music, which was passed down from his father and uncles. He was a wonderful singer, a talented musician, and owned several recording studios where he produced albums/CDs for many talented singers and bands in western NC and beyond. He was a mentor to many musicians and singers and loved helping students at Franklin High School with their senior music projects.

Donnie was the Coordinator for Pickin' On The Square in Franklin and retired several years ago after 26 years.

Throughout his careers he made lifelong friends. Donnie was a loyal friend to all who knew him and would help anyone in need. He listened. He encouraged. He gave. He loved to make people laugh. He lived life to the fullest! Donnie had a strong faith and his glass was always half full.

Donnie's most favorite title was that of Dad and Poppa. He loved his family more than anything and they adored him. He was their real life superhero and will be greatly missed.

A gathering of friends will be Tuesday, August 25th from 5-7pm at Macon Funeral Home The Funeral will be Wednesday, August 26th at 11am. Pastors Don Moffitt and Marcus Larey will officiate. Military rites will be conducted by American Legion Post #108 and VFW Post #7339.

Pall Bearers are his beloved grandsons: Clay Reitmeier, Austin Reitmeier, Trevor Rhea, Levi Durden, Jacob Larey, Wesley Russ, Lawson Clay, Josh Clay, Cooper Durden, and Keaton Reitmeier.

Honorary Pall Bearers are some of his lifelong friends: Conrad Hefner, Ronnie Evans, Mike Holt, John Webb, Don O'Dell, Jack Mileti.

The family would like to thank 828 Vets, Mission Heart Tower, Care Partners, Highlands Cashiers Hospital, Haywood Hospital, Four Seasons Hospice, and the American Legion.

Donations, in memory of Donnie, may be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation and 828 Vets.

Online condolences can be made at www.maconfuneralhome.com.

Macon Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.