Nellie "Joan" Clay, 78, Harrisonville, Missouri, died Saturday, November 3, 2012 at her home. Memorial services 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, November 7 at the Atkinson Chapel in Harrisonville. (Cremation). Visitation 2:00 to 2:30 Wednesday at the chapel. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Serenity Hospice of Harrisonville.

Joan was born February 3, 1934 in Butler, Missouri, the daughter of John Thomas and Leona C. (Moles) Conner. She married Jack Clay on August 15, 1950 in Kansas City, Missouri at Rev. Swadley's home.

Nellie had lived in Shawnee, Kansas for 26 years before she and Jack built their retirement home on a farm near Butler, Missouri in 1989. They moved back to Shawnee in 2001, and then moved to Harrisonville in 2006 to be closer to her brother. Joan's life was characterized by the love she spread to her family, both immediate and extended, providing love and assistance for any family member in need.

Joan was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her husband, Jack, of the home; one son, Gary W. Clay, Webster, Massachusetts; one daughter, Donna Nielson, Lenexa, Kansas; 4 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews.