Barbara Ann Clay

Barbara Ann Clay, 77, entered into Eternal Life on Friday, July 25, 2014, in her home surrounded by her loving family and friends. She was born May 3, 1937, in Rockford, the only daughter and last child of Clarence C. and Lula (Johnston) Powers. Barbara graduated from Rockford West High School class of 1955. She attended Blackburn College in Carlinville. Barbara married her best friend, David George Clay, on June 25, 1960, in Rockford. She was the office manager for Cliff Soper Company for a number of years, retiring in 1997 as the office manager for North American Services. She was an active member of Winnebago United Methodist Church where she taught adult Sunday school in addition to serving on various committees and being a member of the Winnebago United Methodist Women. She was an adult Sunday school leader for over 35 years. Barbara was Commander of the Rockford Sail and Power Squadron in 1994, only the 2nd female Commander and helped pave the way for future female Commanders. Barbara was a member of the Centerville Community Club as the past President and currently the Secretary-Treasurer. She enjoyed spending summers aboard their boat on Lake Superior at Marquette, MI. In the winter, she enjoyed watching and feeding the birds.
Survived by her loving husband, David; her daughter, Christine (Robert) Senkpiel and her son, Bruce (Holly) Clay; her grandchildren, Lynda (Michael) McMillan, Michael Senkpiel, David G., Amber, and Ashley Clay; her step-granddaughter April Shiner; and Jennifer and Jacob Lamb. Predeceased by her parents; her daughter, Kimberly Lamb; her brothers, Harry, Andrew and Donald.
Memorial service will be held at noon on Saturday, August 2, 2014, at Winnebago United Methodist Church, 213 S. Elida St., Winnebago, with Reverend Matthew Smith officiating. A visitation will be held from 10:30am until time of service at the church. Cremation rites have been accorded by Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Rockford. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Carpenter's Place or Rock River Valley Pantry. Express condolences online at www.fitzgeraldfh.com