Clay Young

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our very belovedHubert Claytor Young III, who passed away peacefully on June 1, 2025, at the age of 72. Clay was born on February 9, 1953, and lived a life marked by kindness, perseverance, and dedication to his family, community and God.

Clay is survived by his beloved wife, Beverley Hite Young, to whom he was married for 44 cherished years. He was a devoted father to his children LeAnna Davis (Jason), Marcia Thompson (Mike), Clay Young IV (Rebecca), and Angela Sullivan (Russell). He took immense pride in his grandchildren, Chloeann Davis, Avaleigh Davis, Nicholas Travis, Mayley Davis, Michael Thompson Jr., Chase Thompson, Asher Young, Rowan Young, Sean Sullivan, Sophie Sullivan, and Sawyer Sullivan. Clay had many nieces and nephews that he loved and they loved him too.

Clay is also survived by his two loving sisters, Wanda Hunter (Wayne) and Jeannette McDonald, who shared a lifetime of cherished memories and unwavering support with him.

Clay’s legacy extends beyond his family.

Throughout his life, he made an impact on those around him—whether through his professional accomplishments, his acts of generosity, or his steadfast commitment to helping others. He will be remembered as a man of integrity, strength, and unwavering love.

Clay led an extraordinary life, both professionally and personally, leaving behind a legacy that touched countless lives. Raised by both his father and mother, the late Hubert Claytor Young Jr. and the late Marcia Young, they instilled in him a love for God and living for Him and they also instilled in him a love of the C-L-E-M-S-O-N Tigers! He was a huge lifelong fan and even had friendly family fueds for the “outcast” USC family members. So, although he was accepted into Duke University, there was only one real college choice – Clemson University. His career began in 1974 when Clay, then a summer student, joined SCE&G while attending Clemson University. Even in college, his exceptional qualities stood out. During an interview process where executives at SCE&G evaluated Clemson students for future full-time roles, Clay was the singular candidate hired that year—a testament to his exceptional capabilities and character.

Clay graduated from Clemson University in 1975 with a degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering and promptly embarked on a remarkable career at SCE&G. Over the span of 43 dedicated years, he exclusively worked for the company, climbing the ranks to become the manager of the transmission planning department. In this role, he played an instrumental part in planning for the future growth of the power grid, ensuring reliable service to an ever-expanding customer base. His colleagues affectionately dubbed him “the great witness,” owing to his pivotal responsibility of testifying at the South Carolina Public Service Commission on behalf of SCE&G regarding new transmission lines and other essential electrical facilities. Clay retired in 2018, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and dedication that shaped the company’s progress over decades.

While his professional achievements were undoubtedly remarkable, another profound facet of Clay’s life was his deeply rooted faith and unwavering devotion to his community. For over 22 years, he volunteered as the music minister and choir director at First Calvary Baptist Church in Leesville, SC. Music was his passion, and he possessed a God-given talent for singing that enriched the lives of all who heard him. He was also a dedicated member of the Lexington County Choral Society and truly enjoyed singing with them for 26 years. He often was featured as a soloist. His commitment wasn’t limited to music; his warmth, kindness, and servant-hearted nature illuminated the lives of everyone who crossed his path. Clay lived his life guided by his love for God, spreading divine grace and joy wherever he went. Clay enjoyed singing and, in his younger years, performed for many years in a gospel quartet called The Temple Quartet with his close friends. (The late Tom Page, Jim McNinch, Kirk Bennett and sound man Doug Redding) The group even had the honor of opening for the Gaither Vocal Band at the Koger Center on one occasion.

Above all, Clay’s heart belonged to his family. He lived to bring happiness to those he cherished most and to share God’s boundless love. Clay will forever be remembered as a man of immense talent, compassion, and faith—a beacon of light whose impact will inspire generations to come.

A visitation will be held at noon on Friday, June 6, 2025, followed by the funeral service at 2 PM at First Calvary Baptist Church, located at 2320 Cedar Grove Road, Leesville, SC 29070. Memorial donations may be made in honor of Clay’s life to the church

Clay's impact on those who knew him will never be forgotten. May his memory continue to inspire and comfort all who loved him.

Pallbearers will be Hobson Hite, Von Hite, Mike Thompson, Jack Herring, James Long, Evan Hunter, Wayne Hunter, Nicholas Travis and Clay McConaughay.