Clay Allen Helphinstine

Clay Allen Helphinstine, a beloved father, grandfather, and respected veteran, passed away peacefully on March 31st, 2025, at the age of 78. Born on September 7th, 1946, in Covington, KY, Clay led a remarkable life characterized by his love of family, tireless energy, hard work, and a gregarious sense of humor.

Clay proudly served in the United States Army, climbing to the rank of Specialist 4 while deployed during the Vietnam War. After returning home, he worked as a skilled welder for many years before beginning his colorful tenure at the United States Post Office. While there, Clay wore many hats, exemplifying versatility and a strong work ethic - mailman, custodian, letterbox mechanic, and building maintenance before his retirement. He was a thorough worker though it all, yet he could always find time to grab a bite with his coworkers, or to deliver them an unforgettable heckling.

A man of perpetual motion, Clay enjoyed a succession of hobbies and passions throughout his life. He was a lifelong sports fan, displaying for much of his life an athleticism in football, soccer, and bowling in local groups and competitions, and even taking a stint as a football referee. This gave him a deep knowledge of many sports, and one could always expect Clay to have informed takes on an active game. Along the way, he also demonstrated an aptitude and love of many other activities, most prominently photography, Harley Davidson motorcycles, fast sports cars, World War 2, firearms, and a love of the outdoors which culminated in two successful safaris to Africa.

While often a reserved man, Clay could light up entire rooms with his bombastic storytelling and clever jokes. Those who had the pleasure of getting close to him treasured the staunch support, unique wisdom, and profound warmth he brought to their lives. Clay was preceded in death by his loving wife, Julie Helphinstine, and is survived by his loving sons, Steve (Jody) Cebula and Dale (Nikki) Cebula, along with his cherished grandchildren, Kalob, Seth, Logan (Anthony), Mayhugh (Kyle), and Henry, who will forever carry his light in their hearts.

The family will receive friends at Evans Funeral Home, Milford, on Thursday, April 10th from 5-7 PM where family and friends will unite to honor Clay's life and legacy. Military honors will be held at the Kentucky Veterans Cemetery - North, on Friday, beginning at 10 AM.

In remembering Clay, let us rejoice in a life well-lived, marked by his endless laughs, ferocious love, and unwavering commitment to those dear to him. His legacy and legend will live on in the stories shared, memories held close, and abiding love he left for us.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the American Diabetes Association in his memory.