Clay Walthall, 42, of Shawsville, Va., passed away quietly in his sleep on Saturday morning, March 16, 2019. His family and friends will tell you he was one of the greats. He was genuine, just truly a good man. He was a study in paradoxes; Big and soft, strong and gentle, tough and tender. He had a zest for life, for music, nature, camping, hunting and fishing and especially for his family. He was a hard-working and honest businessman; taking over the family business Family Plumbing and Heating and helping it to continue flourishing when his father passed away.

Most of all he was an amazing family man. He told his five children often that he loved them, wrapping his arms around them whenever he got the chance. He left sweet notes for his wife and his mother, he made sure we all knew we were loved. Like everything he did, he did it with all his heart. He gave us his all. He stayed humble, worked hard, played hard, loved hard. We are not promised tomorrow. He chose to be happy.

He is survived by his wife, Jessica; his children, Kellen, Gracie, and Luke; his step-children, Marin and Caelum; his mother, Jill; his sisters, Katie, Danielle, Paige, and Maggie.

A visitation to celebrate his life will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, March 22, 2019, at John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home in Salem, Va.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.johnmoakey.com.