Memorial Trees
M
Miguel, Simi, Ralphie, & Faisal
October 07, 2024
Z
Zach Martin and the Martin Family
October 05, 2024
J
Jangra Lab
October 04, 2024
Memorial trees planted for:
Clarence E. Word III
<p><br></p><p>Clarence E. Word III passed away after a courageous battle with an illness stemming from his deployment with the NYPD assisting with the rescue and recovery operations at the World Trade Center following the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001.</p><p><br></p><p>Det. Clarence E. Word III</p><p>Sunrise: December 11, 1970 - Sunset: October 1, 2024</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>“There are some who bring a light so great to the world, that even after they have gone, the light remains.”</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>Clarence E. Word III, known affectionately as Clay, was a beacon of unwavering strength and generosity, touching countless lives with his passion, selflessness, and courage. Born in the Bronx, New York on December 11th, 1970. Clay's life journey concluded on October 1st, 2024, in Apollo Beach, Florida, after a valiant and courageous battle with an illness stemming from deployment with the NYPD, assisting with the rescue and recovery operations at the World Trade Center following the terrorist attacks on September 11th, 2001 . His indomitable spirit and infectious smile will be profoundly missed by all who were fortunate enough to have known him. Clay was a man who embraced life with fervor and determination. He was a graduate of Franklin K. Lane High School, where the foundations of his relentless work ethic and leadership traits were honed. His career was a testament to his dedication to serving others, as he proudly wore the badge of the New York Police Department, rising to the rank of 2nd Grade Detective. His fight against 9/11 related cancer exemplified his resilience and became an inspiration to many. Clay's commitment to protecting and serving continued after moving to Florida, where he joined the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office as a Deputy and later served as a School Guardian in Manatee County. His career in law enforcement was more than a job; it was a calling that he answered every day with honor and distinction. Beyond the uniform, Clay was a man of many passions. He lived for the thrill of scuba diving, the freedom of riding motorcycles, and the joy of traveling to new and exciting destinations. His athletic prowess was evident as he played basketball, football, softball, and handball with a competitive yet playful spirit. But perhaps what shone brightest was his role as a coach and a father, especially when he was catching for his daughter Cierra as she pitched her way through middle school, high school, and college. Clay's legacy in sports and life coaching resonates in the countless young lives he shaped with his guidance. Clay is survived by a loving family who were his pride and joy: his devoted wife, Rolanda Morgan-Word; his cherished daughter, Cierra Word; his proud son, Tashawn Morgan; his adoring mother, Eloise Word; his late father, Clarence Word Jr.; his brother, Randall Douglas; his sister, Rochelle Warner-Lopez; his brother, Stevenson Douglas; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who were all touched by his magnanimity. "In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity," Albert Einstein once said, and Clay lived by these words, turning challenges into stepping stones and fostering hope in the hearts of everyone he met. He had the rare gift of making each person he interacted with feel important and valued, and he harnessed adversity to fuel his drive to make a positive impact in the world. Clay's life was one of purpose and impact—a story of a man who ran the race of life with passion, left no stone unturned, and no hand unheld. He was a towering figure of steadfast resolve, ever ready to lend a helping hand or share a word of encouragement. His legacy is not merely in the deeds he accomplished but in the lives he uplifted and the love he spread. To have known Clarence E. "Clay" Word III was to have known a piece of greatness. He moved through the world as a force of nature—unstoppable in his desire to improve the lives around him and unwavering in his commitment to justice and kindness. As we reflect on his life, let us carry forward the lessons he imparted and strive to live up to the example he set. May we continue to be inspired by his journey, as Clay’s story does not end here; it is carried in the hearts and actions of those he inspired. Let us honor Clay's memory by living with the same tenacity, love, and spirit of service that he shared so generously with us all.</p><p><br><br></p><p></p><p><br><br></p><p></p>December 11, 1970 - October 1, 202412/11/197010/01/2024
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