Clay Kennard, 79, of Oklahoma City passed away on September 29, 2026. He was born on November 3, 1946, in Oklahoma City, OK to A.C. and Annabelle (Short) Kennard.

Clay grew up in Oklahoma City and graduated from Putnam City High School before attending both Oklahoma State University to play baseball and eventually graduating from the University of Central Oklahoma. In between, Clay served in the United States Army as a Sergeant (E-5) from 1966-1968 and was deployed for combat during the Vietnam War. Shortly after his service, he met his wife of 53 years, Marsha Kennard, who he married on September 19, 1969. After 17 years of marriage, they had their first and only child, Chad Kennard. Professionally, Clay began his career as a pharmaceutical rep and eventually founded multiple medical device companies that specialized in neonatal care with multiple patents to his name. Over the years, he enjoyed playing and watching golf, attending numerous OU football games and Thunder basketball games, appreciating the occasional Bud Light or two, going on family vacations, and spending time with family, pets, and friends. He was a caring husband, father, and grandfather, who was honest, generous, and carried a one-of-a-kind spirit. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Clay was preceded in death by his parents, brother, and wife, and is survived by his son, Chad Kennard, daughter-in-law, Chelsea Kennard, and two grandchildren, Olivia and Marshall.

The family will be holding a private, family graveside service for Clay and his wife, Marsha, on the morning of Saturday, October 24, followed by a Celebration of Life from Noon-2pm for family and friends. The celebration will take place at Dot Wo located at 3000 W Memorial Road, Unit 103, Oklahoma City, OK 73120.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Give Kids the World Village at www.gktw.org or the Oklahoma Humane Society at www.okhumane.org in Clay’s memory.