Carl Clayton Connell, 68, of Milan, Tennessee died peacefully at home on March 31, 2024 after bravely fighting many health battles over many years. He is survived by his wife, Cyndi Connell, his daughters Cati Connell and Emily Guthrie (Chris), his grandchildren Miles and Willa Guthrie, his brother Tommy Connell (Raydeen), his nieces and nephew Stacey Connell (Sandra), Courtney Connell Cooper (Jason), Rachel Abegg (Davin), and Maddie Wheelwright (JJ), as well as his ten great-nieces and one great-nephew. He is preceded in death by his father John Thomas Connell, mother Jo Ann Connell, and sister Jackie Connell.

Clay was born and raised in Milan, Tennessee and a member of the Concord Cumberland Presbyterian Church. He graduated with honors from Fayette Academy in 1974. Clay went on to receive a bachelor's degree in speech communication & theater from Harding University in 1979 as well as a master's degree in marriage and family therapy from Harding in 1997. His work as a marriage and family therapist was his calling and his passion in life. He loved his family, his friends, and his football.

His service will be held at Bodkin Funeral Home in Milan, Tennessee on Saturday, April 6 at 11am (visitation from 10–11am). He will be attended by honorary pallbearers Tommy Connell, Stacey Connell, Robert Goldstein, Whit Winfrey, Bob Morris, and Kel Blanton.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Harding University MFT Program and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.