James McKinny Clay, 76, a longtime resident of Deming passed away Saturday August 26, 2017 at Mimbres Memorial Hospital.

Jim was born March 19, 1941 in Olney, Texas to Howard James and Catherine Juanita Clay.

He entered the United States Air Force in 1959 and after his service to our country he resided and worked in Texas and Arizona working as a livestock hauler. He came to Deming in the early 1970's and since he always had an interest in Law Enforcement, he began his career and eventually served in all capacities with the Luna County Sheriff's Office. He worked with the Luna County Sheriff's Office for 23 years during which time he was elected Sheriff and served 3 terms in that office.

He is survived by his wife Linda Clay, daughters Debra, Shawna, Melissa, and Catherine; son Jason; sisters Beverly, Nancy and Nedra; 10 grandchildren and 1 great granddaughter.

A celebration of his life will be this Friday, September 1, 2017 at 10:30 in the morning at CitiLife Church with Pastor Cesar Chavez officiating. Cremation has taken place at Baca's Mimbres Crematory.

In lieu of flowers family requests that memorial contributions be made in Jim's memory to Cancer Support of Deming And Luna County, P.O. Box 1746, Deming, NM 88031 or to your favorite charity.