Walter Clayton Joines, known to many as Clay, passed away on August 26, 2026, surrounded by the ones he loved so much. He was born on November 26, 1957, in Fort Worth, Texas to Walter Clarence Joines and Dorothy Watts Joines.

Clay was a simple man whose life was marked by devotion to work, family, and faith. A carpenter by trade, he was a very hard worker, and that tireless work ethic spilled over to his children and grandchildren. He loved to hunt and fish with family and friends, and spending time in the nature God provided him gave him great peace. Clay took great pride in his entire family, always loving to speak of their accomplishments. Those who knew him will remember a man who valued what mattered most and who carried himself with quiet strength and deep love for his family.

Above all, Clay treasured his family. He is survived by his wife, Lauren McManus Joines. He also leaves behind his daughters, Jennifer Hudson and husband Allen and Jamie Hannegan and husband Todd. His special nephew, Dustin Davison, who was treated like a son, survives him as well, along with Dustin’s wife, Amanda.

Clay’s love extended across generations, and he was especially proud of his grandchildren: Taylor Hudson and his wife, Samantha; Adam Hudson and his wife, Daci; Emily Bumgardner; Carlie Steele and her husband, Will; Ethan Bumgardner; Cooper Hudson; Chloe Waxley and her husband, Barrett; and Lucy Hannegan and Callie Hannegan. He is also survived by his great-grandchildren, Elijah Hudson, Cora Bumgardner, Carter Paige Hudson, Israel Hudson, and Theo Hudson. He is further survived by his sister, Dorothy Davison and her husband, Otis and a brother, David Joines.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Rhonda Ross; and a special nephew, Thomas Welch.

Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation on August 29, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Westside Baptist Church, 6834 Hwy 1 Bypass, Natchitoches, Louisiana 71457. A memorial service will follow at 2:00 p.m. at the church.

Walter Clayton “Clay” Joines will be remembered with love for the life he built, the example he set, and the pride he took in those dearest to him. His memory will remain a lasting blessing to all who knew and loved him and we take comfort in knowing we will be re-united with him in Heaven.