William Clay Stribling

William Clayton "Clay" Stribling, 56, of Amarillo, TX passed away on December 18, 2024, after a valiant battle with cancer. 

Memorial services will be held at 11:00 AM, Tuesday, January 7, 2025, in the Nave at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Amarillo, TX. Arrangements are by Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors.

William Clayton Stribling was born in Hereford, TX to Daulma and John Stribling. He was always proud of his Hereford roots. Clay was a proud alumnus of West Texas A&M University and graduated with honors from Dedman School of Law at Southern Methodist University. After law school, he had a successful career as a health care attorney. 

Clay joined the Amarillo Area Foundation as President & CEO in May 2011. Through his steadfast commitment to service, Clay spearheaded The Panhandle Gives campaign, raising more than $40 million to support organizations across the 26 counties of the Foundation’s service area. He also expanded the Panhandle Disaster Relief Fund, a groundbreaking initiative that redefined disaster relief efforts in the region and earned national recognition. These are just a few highlights of his legacy, as he championed numerous other initiatives that continue to serve the community today. 

Clay's contributions to the Texas Panhandle were profound and far-reaching. He was instrumental in the development of the Texas Tech University School of Veterinary Medicine, West Texas A&M University’s Downtown Campus, and the state mental health hospital in Amarillo. His advocacy for higher education resulted in meaningful scholarship opportunities, and his tireless work to ensure long-term sustainability and regional impact continues to benefit the community. In 2024, Clay was honored as one of West Texas A&M University’s Distinguished Alumni, a testament to his lifelong commitment to the community. Most recently Clay was also honored as the 2024 Amarillo Globe News - Man of the Year. 

Clay's devotion to his community went beyond his professional role; he was a devoted husband, father, mentor, and friend. His integrity, humor, and kindness were evident in all aspects of his life, earning him the respect and admiration of all who had the privilege of knowing him. Clay was a talented musician, vocalist, and actor. He loved the performing arts and passed this love on to his talented son, Spencer, of whom he was always so proud. His friends will remember his sound advice, which often came in the form of a 1980’s movie or TV quote – he had no equal in his knowledge. He enjoyed watching soccer, going to Texas Rangers games, and relaxing at the Broadmoor in Colorado Springs with his wife, Christian. Clay’s life was too short, but one that was well lived. He always said that he lived a charmed life and believed it to his passing.

Clay is survived by his wife, Christian Ladd Stribling; son, Spencer Clayton Stribling; stepchildren, Thomas Geren Ladd and Catherine Frances Ladd; sister, Marda Stribling and husband Buz Buskirk, brother, Randy Stribling and wife Johnette; along with many adoring nieces and nephews. 

Clay was preceded in death by his parents, Daulma and John Stribling Jr. 

The family would like to sincerely give thanks to the MD Anderson team, specifically Dr. Christopher J. Logothetis with Texas Oncology, Dr. Alan Keister with BSA Hospice of the Southwest, especially Dawn his nurse, and Lennox, along with the entire Archie Family, all for their loving care of Clay and our family.

In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to the Clay Stribling Legacy Endowment at the Amarillo Area Foundation. Online HERE or via mail Amarillo Area Foundation, 919 S. Polk, Amarillo, TX 79101.