Charles "Clay" Deems

Charles “Clay” Deems Jr., 48, of Warren, Ohio, passed away on March 11, 2026. Born in Youngstown, Ohio on March 22, 1977, he was the son of Charles Deems Sr. and the late Mary (King) Rudolph. Clay graduated from Warren G. Harding High School and worked as an assembler for Miller Industries in Hermitage, Pennsylvania. In 2001 he married Dokinda (Martin) Deems, and together they raised five children.

Clay was most at home on the golf course or by the water with a fishing rod in hand. A passionate sports fan and lifelong Eagles supporter, he also loved relaxing with a Budweiser and Goldschläger, dominating at cornhole no matter the weather, and sharing his cooking—especially his baked mac-and-cheese and barbecue ribs. Direct and unfiltered, he let people know exactly how he felt. Though he famously disliked Christmas, nothing brought him greater joy than time spent with his family. His children and grandchildren were the center of his world.

He is survived by his father, Charles Deems Sr.; his wife and mother of his children, Dokinda Deems; his children, Drucilla Martin, De’Airha Martin, Mahogany Martin, Charli Deems, and Clay Deems, all of Warren; his grandchildren, Rhy’Era Martin, Allen Williamson Jr., Aye’den Williamson-Martin, Jae’Slyn Cousins, Jairha Cousins, Jay’Son Cousins Jr., and Marli Deems; his sister, Misty Rudolph; his brothers, Tom Rudolph and Seth (Kristen) Rudolph; and many nieces, nephews, and close friends who will carry him in their hearts.

Clay was preceded in death by his mother, Mary E. Rudolph; his grandfather, William Thomas Rudolph; his grandson, Jaydin; his nephew, Zayvion; his grandmother, Eleanore Deems; his uncle, Joe Rudolph Sr.; and his cousin, Drew Fisher. Though the game has ended for Clay, the memories of his laughter, his honesty, and his love continue to live on in everyone who was fortunate enough to know him.