Clinton Lewis Fay, 65, of Sheridan, passed away Thursday, September 18, 2014 in his home.

He was born September 6, 1949 in Powell, WY to Edna and Walter Fay.

He grew up the Wyoming cowboy way, learning the art of leather carving, starting in 1961, and getting his early training in shops in Sheridan. His main mentor was Bill Gardner.

Clinton attended Sheridan High School and graduated from Sheridan College. While at Sheridan College, he competed on the rodeo team under Coach Pat Hamilton.

After graduating from college he worked various jobs and in 1967, he married Jody Draine.

He served 20 years with the Sheridan Fire Department as a Captain and later as an Arson Investigator.

After retiring from the Fire Department, he began leather carving full-time. He was a Master and was world renowned in his art. He traveled from Australia to Japan teaching and co-authored the book Sheridan Style Carving with Bill Gardner. The book has become the instructional manual for Sheridan Style Carving, a specific style that is well known and easily recognized. He was often a judge at the Rocky Mountain Leather Show held annually in Sheridan.

Clinton was a member of the Masonic Lodge and the Shrine. He enjoyed his grandchildren, his friends and his dogs.

He is survived by his wife Jody of Sheridan; children Michael (Sandra) and Jolie; grandchildren Jane and Addie Pendergast; and sister, Noreen Nalor (Bob Culligan).

A memorial service will be held in mid May, 2015 during the weekend of the Rocky Mountain Leather Show, details to be determined.

Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

A Memorial Fund has been established and donations can be sent to Bank of the West, 2 North Main St, Sheridan, WY 82801.

SheridanMedida.com - September 22, 2014.