Clay Venning Tate, 63, died on January 8, 2020 in Oklahoma City, OK. Clay was born on March 29, 1956 to Leo G. Tate and Billye "Bunny" Berniece (Wood) Tate in Salina, KS. When he was very young, the family returned to their home state of Oklahoma where they settled in Bethany, OK. Clay graduated from Putnam City West High School in 1974 where he made many lifelong friends. While pursuing his bachelors degree, Clay enjoyed working at Molly Murphys restaurant where he portrayed one of his historical heroes, Wyatt Earp. Clay graduated from the University of Central Oklahoma in 1989 with a Bachelor of Science degree. In 1991, Clay was working at a Honda Dealership when he recognized the customer he was working with as a sweet girl he had a crush on in High School, Susan Blackburn. In pure Clay fashion, he was able to make the sale and convince Susan to go on a date with him. He was a great salesman, because just three months later he closed the deal of his life and made Susan his wife. Clay and Susan were able to spend 28 wonderful years together. Clay was a perpetual member of the Siloam Lodge of Oklahoma City. He obtained his 32nd degree from the Scottish Rite in Guthrie on September 24, 1995. Clay retired from the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority in September of 2017. Clay was able to enjoy 2 years of retirement and he really made the most of it. Clay was always working outside and rescuing the animals that found their way into his yard. He spent most of his time working in his garden, riding his motorcycle and playing music. His kindness, generosity and sense of humor will be missed by all who knew him. Clay is survived by his loving wife, Susan Blackburn Tate; his son, Colin Tate of Austin, wife Emily and grandson Caden Tate; daughter, Lisa Mahuran of Oklahoma City, husband Sam Mahuran. Clay was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Leo and Bunny Tate and his sister, Terese Kelley. A celebration of Clays life will be held at Mercer-Adams Chapel in Bethany, OK on Monday, January 13, 2020 at 10 AM. Interment will be held directly following the service at the Bethany Cemetery. Memorial Service Mercer-Adams Chapel Monday, January 13, 2020 10:00 AM 3925 N. Asbury Bethany, OK 73008