It is with deep sadness and a spirit of celebration that we announce the passing of Violet Clay, a beloved mother, grandmother, and cherished friend, who left this world on September 18, 2026, at the age of 91. Born on March 16, 1935, in Carl, Oklahoma, Violet's journey through life was marked by her love for gardening and her passion for cooking, which she generously shared with family and friends.

Her childhood years were spent in Winfield. It was there that she married John Clay, Sr. on May 15, 1948. The couple moved to Fort Dodge in 1954. Violet worked for many years as a cook for area restaurants including the Spur Club, Airport Cafe, and many others. She also worked for Humana Hospital in Dodge City in housekeeping.

Violet was the embodiment of kindness and compassion, touching the lives of many with her warm heart and nurturing spirit. She was a devoted member of the Apostolic Faith Pentecostal Church, where her faith and love for her community blossomed. Her affection for her children, grandchildren, and her church family was unmatched, and her home was always open, a sanctuary of love and laughter. As we bid farewell to a beautiful soul, let us celebrate her life-the laughter, the love, and the countless memories that will forever be etched in our hearts. Violet will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on in the love she shared and the lives she touched.

Violet is survived by two sons, John Clay, Jr. of Aurora, Colorado and Anthony Clay of Seattle, Washington; a step-daughter, Julie White of London, England; a brother, Leroy Lewis of Wellington; one sister, Arvina Hughes of Winfield; and several grandchildren, who will carry forward her legacy of love and kindness. She is preceded in death by her husband; her parents; a daughter, Angiline Morgan; two sons, Cornelius Clay and Marion Clay; two brothers, Bishop Chester Lewis and Theodore Lewis; five sisters, Mae Walker, Viola Clay, Lucille Vanzone, Florine Littles, and Ila June Lewis.

Funeral services will be held at the Apostolic Faith Pentecostal Church, Dodge City, on Friday, September 25, 2026, at 10:00 AM, with Pastor Marguerite Ferrell presiding. Visitation will take place at Swaim Funeral Chapel, Dodge City on Thursday, September 24, 2026, from 4:00 to 8:00 PM. Following the funeral service, Violet will be laid to rest at Kansas Veterans' Cemetery at Fort Dodge. Memorials are suggested to the church in care of the funeral home. Thoughts and memories may be shared in the online guestbook at www.swaimfuneralhome.com.