Clay W Duplessis

Clay W. Duplessis, a cherished husband, father, brother, and friend, passed away on August 14, 2026, after succumbing to the effects of Primary Progressive Aphasia and Posterior Cortical Atrophy, conditions he faced with remarkable bravery for many years. Born on April 21, 1957, in Middletown, Clay grew up in Deep River, CT. Clay was the son of Howard and Anne Duplessis. He was predeceased by his beloved son Daniel Duplessis earlier this year. He is survived by his wife, Barbara Cooper of Manchester, CT, his son, Clay Duplessis Jr.,of Acton, ME, brother Gary, with his wife Laurie of Deep River, CT, his sister Janine Duplessis of Tacoma, WA, and his brother Guy, with his wife Lili Hayes of Hull, MA. Clay also leaves behind one grandchild, Kaelan Taschner. A graduate of Valley Regional High School in 1975, Clay pursued his passion for boat building in Maine, where he honed his skills and discovered his true calling. His expertise in building and repairing wooden boats was known and appreciated in the local boating community,and he took great pride in restoring many vessels to their former beauty. Clay's commitment to service extended beyond his professional life. He was deeply involved in volunteering, bringing Native American ceremonies to prisons in Connecticut, where he touched many lives with his compassion and understanding. A celebration of Clay's life will be held at the Essex Boat Club in Essex, CT, where family and friends will gather to honor his memory and the impact he had on those around him. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice, in memory of Clay W. Duplessis—an extraordinary man whose spirit will forever be cherished and remembered by those who knew and loved him.