It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved son, father, brother and friend, Clayton “Clay” Blaine Stoddard, who left us far too soon at the age of 47. His memory will forever remain in the hearts of those he loved.
Born on June 14, 1977, in Biloxi, Clay spent most of his life along the Gulf Coast, where he developed a lasting love for the water and coastal way of living. A proud graduate of D’Iberville High School, Class of 1995, he went on to earn his degree from The University of Southern Mississippi in 2000, where he was an active member of the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity.
Clay built an impressive career in the medical technology field, working tirelessly for over 21 years. Most recently, he served as a Contrast Media Business Development Manager for GE HealthCare, where he earned numerous accolades, including the prestigious Top Ranking New Employee Award in Competitive Takeaways in 2024. His professionalism, charisma, and drive set him apart in his field and among his colleagues.
Outside of work, Clay’s greatest passion was his children. He was a devoted father to Clayton Blaine Stoddard II (23) and Ava Marie Stoddard (17), with whom he shared countless memories filled with love and laughter. Whether he was boating out to the islands, golfing on a sunny Saturday morning, or cheering for his favorite college teams, Clay lived every moment with zest and heart.
He is survived by his beloved children, Clayton and Ava; his parents, Cathy S. Collins and Larry Stoddard (Karen); his siblings, Bryan Stoddard (Kerry), Bailee Bradley (Ryan), Blake Stoddard (Kelsey), and Graham Stoddard (Marissa); his nephews, Bryan Cavan Stoddard and James Glynn Bradley; his nieces, Estella Grey Bradley and Audrey Mae Bradley; and a host of friends who loved him dearly.
A Christian Prayer Service will be held on Friday, May 2, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at Nativity B.V.M. Cathedral. Friends may visit one hour prior. Interment will follow at Southern Memorial Park. Family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate and honor Clay’s remarkable life and the legacy of love and laughter he leaves behind.
Clay’s bright spirit, compassionate heart, and easy smile will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know him. His love will continue to live on through all the lives he touched.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Oxford House in honor of Clay Stoddard. Checks should be made payable to Housing Services of CH1, 330 Santini Street, Biloxi, Mississippi 39530, with “Clay Stoddard” noted in the memo line.
Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Clayton “Clay” Blaine Stoddard.
Friday, May 2, 2025
9:00 - 10:00 am (Central time)
Nativity B.V.M. Cathedral
Friday, May 2, 2025
Starts at 10:00 am (Central time)
Nativity B.V.M. Cathedral
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