Forrest L Clay

Obituary

Forrest L. Clay

January 11, 1927- May 29, 2025

Forrest L. Clay, long-time resident of Worland (74 years total) passed away on May 29, 2025, he was 98 years old. Forrest was born in Los Angeles, California on January 11, 1927. He was raised in LA and proudly served in three branches of the United States Military. He served 9 months in the United States Air Force during WWII and then transferred to the United Stated Navy. During the war he was stationed on the Naval ship USS ALABAMA and served as a boatswain mate. He was honorably discharged on March 6, 1947. After his service during the war, he joined the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department with the rank of Deputy Sheriff. He served for 4 years with the department and was also a member of the California National Guard.

On August 15, 1950, Forrest married Joanne Kerby of Worland. Shortly after they were married, his California National Guard unit was activated into the United States Army to serve in the Korean War. After the end of the war, he was honorably discharged on August 8, 1952. He and Joanne relocated to Worland in 1952. Their first child, Kerby, was born on February 4, 1953, followed by the birth of their son, Kelly, on May 12, 1955. After relocating to Worland, Forrest worked for the Kerby Theatre, Pure Oil Company, Schlothauer's Grocery Store and then served three years as the Washakie County Undersheriff, working for Sheriff Jim Black.

In early 1960, Forrest became partner in Fremont Beverages- the local Pepsi Cola Bottling company. He was a member of the Worland Elks Lodge, Worland Chamber of Commerce, Local Masonic Lodge, and a proud member of St. Alban's Episcopal Church. He served 8 years as a Washakie County Commissioner and 2 years as the president of the local Chamber of Commerce.

In 1969 he was instrumental in founding Admiral Beverage Corporation, a cooperative of local family Pepsi Bottlers in 5 states. In 1977 he and Joanne divorced, and he later married Mary Patrick of Worland.

During his tenure at Admiral Beverage, he served as President and CEO. Forrest also served on the Board of Directors of the First National Bank of Thermopolis and on the advisory board of Security State Bank in Salt Lake City Utah.

Forrest was preceded in death by his parents, Leland and Marie Clay of Los Angeles; his first wife, Joanne, his second wife, Mary Clay; and stepson Mike Patrick.

He is survived by his daughter, Kerby (Louie) Pfrangle; son, Kelly (Susan Hansen) Clay; stepson, Tim (Lori) Patrick; step daughter-in-law, Jenean Patrick and several grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great great-grandchildren.

Memorial donations may be made to the Worland Senior Center. Please send checks to PO Box 524 Worland, Wyoming 82401. A private family service will be held at a later date. Online condolences may be made at www.bryantfuneralhomeonline.com.