Ross Clay

Ross C. Clay passed away Oct. 12, 2015 after a heroic two year battle with cancer. He was 87 years young. Ross was adored and admired by everyone who knew him, owing not only to his kindness and compassion but also to a genuine interest in the stories and experiences of others. Ross was a voracious reader his entire life; he was also very witty and clever with words. Coupled with his skill as a photographer, Ross was perfectly suited for the advertising business. Ross Clay Advertising in Salt Lake City serviced the print, radio and television ads nation wide for a variety of clients for over 40 years. In the early 90's, Ross retired from the advertising industry to--with the help of his wife Norma--design, build and operate a ten-room bed & breakfast in Springdale Utah, the Novel House Inn, just outside Zion National Park. Ross' love of life and people saw him flourish as an innkeeper. His passion for hiking and photographing the splendor of Zion and a strong local community allowed Springdale to quickly became his "home".

Family meant the world to Ross. He was always there for his children and grandchildren, giving endless support and unconditional love. Whether he was entertaining them with his stories, educating them with his endless supply of arcane facts, or just passing on the wisdom culled from his years of open and honest living, he embodied a truly rich and nurturing spirit.

Ross' legacy lives on in his wife Norma Clay, daughter Roslyn Clay, son Greg Hall, son-in-law Ciaran McShane, along with his six beloved grandchildren. They all continue to carry his enormous love, generosity, happiness and all-around beauty throughout this world.

A Graveside service will be held Saturday Oct. 24 at 1:00 pm at the Jolley-Gifford Cemetery in Springdale, Utah followed by a celebration of life at the Novel House Inn.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Heather Gilbert MD and her staff for their excellent care.

In lieu of flowers the Ross C. Clay Memorial Literacy Fund has been set up to help spread his passion for reading. The mission is to get books into the areas, hands and minds of those who need them. Donations can be made at any Zions Bank.