Alfred Clay Ludlum, III

Clay Ludlum, age 51, departed this life too soon on Monday, December 23 after a long and courageous battle with cancer attributed to 9/11.

Clay is survived by his daughters Taylor and Ashley, his wife Karen McCaffrey and his mother Judith Pennebaker. Clay loved his family with all his heart. He was a devoted father, loving husband and dutiful son.

Born in Pittsburgh and raised in Rocky River, OH, Clay moved to Delaware in 2004 following a successful financial advisory career in New York City. A born leader Clay was graduated from The Citadel in Charleston, South Carolina where he become the highest ranking cadet at the school, Regimental Commander.

Service to the United States and others was always a top priority for Clay. He served in the New York Army National Guard and volunteered at various homeless shelters and soup kitchens. On September 11, 2001 Clay was living and working in Stamford, CT. When the towers fell he immediately found a way to Manhattan via boat and went straight to ground zero to help with triage. Clay is a 9/11 hero.

Relatives and friends are invited to his memorial service which will take place on Saturday, December 28 in the Chapel of Christ Church Christiana Hundred (www.christchurchde.org), 505 E. Buck Road, Wilmington at 2:00pm.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Ashley and Taylor’s college funds.

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In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Ashley and Taylor’s college funds.

Condolences

Graham da Ponte writes,

At rest now with his adored grandparents and Aunt Martha Lee, Clay remains beloved by his cousins John, David, and Graham. Much love to Karen, Aunt Judy, Ashley, and Taylor. You are in our hearts.

12/27/2019 01:13 pm

Susan Redmond lit a candle

12/27/2019 02:37 pm

Scott P. Burrows writes,

The Citadel Class of 1990 will never forget you.

12/27/2019 03:21 pm

Stacey Eadie lit a candle and writes,

Karen We are so very sorry for the loss of your life! Yes he left this world much too early! Thinking of you & your family Love the Eadies

12/27/2019 05:58 pm

Fr. Jordan Kelly writes,

My deepest sympathy to Clay’s family at this very difficult time. Please be assured of my prayers! I will offer Mass for Clay.

12/27/2019 06:15 pm

Blake Gordon writes,

My thoughts and prayers are with Karen, Taylor, and Ashley. RIP Clay

12/27/2019 09:02 pm

John V. Greco lit a candle and writes,

A recent conversation about The Journey: "They are so young, and I know I am not long in this world,let them know I Love them. " Ludlum was concerned about Taylor & Ashley going to college. (Not that they would not go but that Ludlum would not physically be around to give them Love & Guidance. I assured Ludlum that you Ludlum will live in their hearts because they know how much you Love them. We know how much you Loved Your Family & Friends because this is what you gave us!! Brother Ludlum Love & Honor.

12/28/2019 12:07 pm

Rebecca Emptage lit a candle and writes,

Karen & family, I share a prayer from Fr. Herb Host, CSC: "Loving Father, we know that death will claim us at our appointed times. We trust your Son's promise that he will not let us be among the lost. We look forward to our reunion with family and friends, knowing that there will never again be goodbyes and farewells. Grant us your hope that we might live with courage and faithfulness until that day. Amen." May Clay rest in the promise of eternal peace. Becky Emptage (SMM choir)

12/28/2019 04:04 pm

J. Schriner writes,

My sincerest condolences. I knew Clay growing up in Rocky River and thoroughly enjoyed his company. He was a genuinely kind sole that was always ready for a little mischief and a lot of laughs. Rest in peace Brother.

12/30/2019 06:53 pm

Sam Kennedy lit a candle and writes,

Clay you will be missed.

12/30/2019 09:58 pm

Arthi lit a candle and writes,

My condolences to Sue, Karen, and the girls. As a former nanny, I can say Clay was one of the most loving and supportive father’s I had ever met. May his soul now Rest In Peace and I’m sure he will be watching over his two daughters as they continue their path in life.

01/01/2020 08:04 pm

Saul Martinez writes,

Clay was the Regimental Commander my knob year at The Citadel. He was professional and never tolerated hazing. At the risk of being alienated by a classmate he once required of a fellow senior that he apologize to a freshman for unacceptable behavior. Will never forget it and will never forget Mr. Ludlum.

08/07/2020 10:36 pm

Robert E Herring, DMD lit a candle and writes,

Thank your for your service and memories. Proud to be your classmate. Your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.

12/01/2020 01:05 pm

Tony Tweedale writes,

I am shocked & sad to hear of this, everyone.

05/24/2021 10:45 am

Taylor Ludlum writes,

I love you forever dad❤️

11/26/2021 11:34 pm

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