Patty Jo Clay

Patty Jo Clay, a beloved educator, treasured mother, and vibrant spirit, passed away on April 19, 2026, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, at the age of 78. Born on June 21, 1947, in Salina, Kansas, Patty dedicated her life to nurturing the minds and hearts of countless children throughout her remarkable career in education.

Patty was a graduate of the University of Indiana and holds a specialty degree in School Psychology and a Master of Education Degree from Pittsburg State University. Patty began her educational career in 1972 teaching grades 4-6th in Independence as well as serving as a counselor to elementary and middle school students. Patty was one of the first elementary counselors in the state of Kansas and wrote the elementary counseling program that is still in use today. Patty served as vice principal at Independence Middle School and then served as principal of Washington Elementary School. For nearly three decades, Patty served as a dedicated principal at Eisenhower Elementary School, a role she embraced with an unwavering passion from 1993 until 2001. Patty was selected as the Distinguished Elementary Principal of the Year for District 3 by the Kansas Association of Elementary School Principals. Patty was a member of the 2003 Leadership of Kansas, as well as a board member and governor of the Kansas Associates of Elementary School Principals. Patty served as an adjunct professor for Independence Community College and Pittsburg State University. Patty received certification for phase 1, 2, and 3 in the Technology Literacy Project. Patty also served on the board of the 14th Judicial District Juvenile Corrections Advisory Board and the Mercy Hospital Lay Advisory Board. Those fortunate enough to know her will remember her as a luminous presence, described by the school community as "a magnetic and joyous person," who tirelessly advocated for high-quality education. Her commitment to fostering learning and growth left an indelible mark on the lives she touched. 

Patty belonged to many groups and clubs. She belonged to Xi Epsilon and was voted Valentine Queen and Woman of the Year, Lady’s of Independence Tennis Association, Lady’s Traveling Club, a neighborhood camping club named Lumpeckeroos. Patty was also part of a sewing group that taught her how to sew quilts. Patty enjoyed it so much she made a quilt for each member of the group. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Patty relished the joys of life. She loved tennis and cheering for students in school sports. Her home was a welcoming haven, where she often hosted a women's group that celebrated friendship, laughter, and camaraderie over games and spirited conversations. Patty's compassion extended to every corner of her community; she truly cared for the well-being of friends, families, and children in Independence, embodying the very heart and soul of the town.

A memorial service to honor Patty's life will be held on May 2, 2026, at 1:00 PM at First Christian Church, located at 319 West Laurel St., Independence, KS 67301. Following the service, her final resting place will be at Mount Hope Cemetery located at 1300 N Pennsylvania Ave, Independence, KS 67301, at 2:00 PM, where all will gather to remember and celebrate the beautiful life of a remarkable woman.

Patty is lovingly remembered by her sons, William M. Clay of Tulsa, Oklahoma, and Criss M. Clay of Wichita, Kansas; her four grandchildren; and her four great-grandchildren. In this time of remembrance, let us hold Patty's spirit close, as we share stories and smiles, reflecting on the gifts she brought to our lives. In this gentle farewell, we embrace the love she shared, knowing she will forever be a guiding light in the hearts of those who knew her. 

Patty was preceded in death by her parents, William and Mayozie Hardy, and her brother, James David Hardy. 

Memorial donations can be made to the family for funeral arrangements in Patty's remembrance.