Clay Underwood

James Clayton (Clay) Underwood, 50, passed away unexpectedly early Sunday September 28, 2025, surrounded by his loving family and friends. 

Clay was born November 12, 1974, in Nashville, TN. His family moved to Blacksburg, VA at the age of 8 where he played soccer for the Tornados on a youth traveling team. He also excelled in football, basketball, and baseball for the Blacksburg Indians in middle and high school. His sophomore year his family moved to Garland, TX. 

He graduated from Naaman Forest High School in 1993. In high school, he played football. He was Captain of the Rangers and selected to the All-City team his senior year. He was also Student Council President. 

He received his Bachelor of Science Biomedical Science Degree in 1997 from Texas A&M University. In 2000 he earned his MBA from the University of North Texas. 

For years he wanted to obtain a Doctorate Degree. He was so excited to be accepted into the DBA program at the University of North Texas Frisco Campus. He had just begun his classes in August 2025 at the time of his death. 

Clay enjoyed running and participated in marathon races in Dallas, Chicago, and Arizona. His heart was strong not only physically but also for the love he had for his family, friends, and life. 

Clay was preceded in death by his wife Shannon, his maternal grandparents Roy and Ann Richardson Hardy, paternal grandfather James Underwood and his uncle David Underwood.

He is survived by his fiancé Cheryl Lawton, his parents Jim and Donna Underwood, sister Melissa (Cole) Bricker and his paternal grandmother Carol Underwood in addition to numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and longtime loyal friends. 

A Celebration of Life ceremony is scheduled for: Saturday, December 6, 2025 Crossroads Church 7900 Chiesa Road Rowlett, Texas 75089 10 AM In lieu of Flowers, the family requests donations be made to the charity of your choice or to Crossroads Church, address above. 

Rest in Peace Clay, We Love You.