Sidney L. Clay, 68, who worked for the Chicago Park District for more than 30 years and served as a Democratic precinct captain in the 21st Ward, died of a heart attack Wednesday, Jan. 30, in Little Company of Mary Hospital, in Evergreen Park. Born and raised on the South Side, Mr. Clay was a standout football player at DuSable High School. After graduating, he joined the Army, working as a bridge-builder in Germany and playing football. When he returned to Chicago after two years in the military, Mr. Clay married Carleen Callum, his high school sweetheart. He took a job with the Chicago Transit Authority, but quickly transferred to the Park District. Mr. Clay started as a tree-trimmer and was steadily promoted, spending his last 10 years with the city as an operations supervisor in charge of maintaining Foster Park. “He loved it because he liked being outside,” his wife said. Mr. Clay worked as a precinct captain. Though he was asked to run for political office many times, he preferred a quieter life, his wife said. Mr. Clay retired in 1995 to spend more time with his family. Other survivors include two sons, Kevin and Kiley; a daughter, Kimberlee; three granddaughters; and a great-grandson. Visitation will be from 6 to 7 p.m. Thursday in St. Helena of the Cross Church, 10116 S. Normal Ave. Mass will be said after the visitation.
