Clayton Thomas Cooley passed away peacefully on August 27, 2023.

He is survived by the Loves of his Life, wife, Laura and daughters, Raney and Campbell. He also leaves his sister, Amy James and brothers, Charles Cooley, Christopher Cooley and Cyrus Cooley and their families full of brother and sister-in-laws and many admiring nieces and nephews as well as a host of dear cousins. He was preceded in death by his sister, Virginia Cooley.

Born on October 18, 1955, Clay was the son of the late Charles and Margaret Cooley. His parents instilled in him a strong work ethic, high moral standards and an incredible drive to succeed, but above all a generous heart and spirit to help and give to others. He was blessed with a great sense of humor & wit.

Memphis born and bred, Clay with his southern charm and character, made his life career in the Cotton industry. Following in his father's footsteps Clay began with Dunavant Enterprises in the traffic department and quickly grew to lead the ocean export operation. He also worked for Macquarie Cotton, and Mallory Alexander before starting his own firm CTC Logistics in Savannah, Ga. He could get cotton delivered anywhere in the world whether he was shipping it via rail, truck, break bulk vessels or in containers. His sincere relationships with senior executives within ocean carriers only helped grow his success in delivering bales. Over his 40+ year career he has probably been responsible for shipping more bales than anyone. He was one of the best Cotton Logistics experts and he loved his industry. Clay was one of the first to voluntarily teach at ACSA's International Cotton Institute, as he truly enjoyed sharing his knowledge with the next generation of cotton leaders.

One of Clay's passions was the game of golf. True life-long friendships were made on the course. He loved seeing a great shot whether it was his own or one of his competitors. As the Bing Crosby song says "Straight Down the Middle" could have been Clay's inspiration. He was not the longest hitter, but he was always straight down the middle and was a master of getting up and down. Putting was his trademark. To quote one of his golfing friends: "From 40 yards in, unquestionably the greatest player ever" Clay was involved in the leadership of many long-standing golf events including, The Front Street Scramble, The Fore Aces Society, and at the Savannah Quarters Country Club. It is only fitting that the last golf tournament Clay played in, he won his flight!

Clay inspired all who knew him with his loyalty. He was admired for his kindness and fairness. Above all, he cherished his life as husband to Laura and father to the Girls….nothing brought him more joy in life. He will be deeply missed.

Memorial Funeral Masses will be held at:

Blessed Sacrament Church Savannah, GA on Saturday, September 23rd at 11:00am

St Louis Catholic Church Memphis, TN on Saturday, September 30th at 12:00pm