IN HONOR OF
Timothy O’Brian Clay
A Life of Service, Strength, and Love
Timothy O’Brian Clay, also known as “Cobra Knightwolf” and “Doc,” was a man of uncommon courage and boundless compassion. Born on October 27, 1989, in Piqua, Ohio, Timothy’s life was a remarkable story of perseverance, service, and love, a testament to what can be achieved through unwavering determination and an open heart.
From the moment Timothy entered the world, his path was far from easy. Diagnosed early with Aortic Stenosis, a heart condition that many believed would limit him, he faced daunting odds. But Timothy never let limitations define him. Through open heart surgery and challenges, he defied every expectation with the grit of a warrior and the optimism of a dreamer. “You can accomplish anything as long as you are consistent and give 110%,” he often said. These words were more than a motto, they were the guiding principle of his life.
Under the mentorship of his father, James Clay, a retired Marine, Timothy learned the value of resilience and discipline. From a young age, his mother, Glenda Dobbins Wallace, instilled in him an unshakable foundation of love and encouragement. Together, they shaped a man whose strength was matched only by his capacity to care for others.
Timothy turned obstacles into opportunities. What started as grueling physical training with his father became a transformative journey. By his teenage years, Timothy had not only overcome his health challenges but excelled in sports, becoming a standout athlete in football and basketball. He inspired everyone around him with his work ethic and refusal to quit, proving that no challenge was too great for his unyielding spirit.
A Life of Service
Timothy’s commitment to serving others propelled him into the U.S. Navy, where he discovered his true calling as a Hospital Corpsman. Renowned for his unwavering calmness under pressure and extraordinary dedication, he provided life saving care on the battlefield, earning numerous awards for his bravery and skill. His exceptional capabilities further manifested in his role as a Search and Rescue swimmer, which highlighted his remarkable physical and mental strength. Drawing from these experiences, Timothy leveraged his grit to inspire others, establishing an intensive daily workout at 1600 hours dubbed “Slay with Clay.”
During his deployment to Afghanistan, Timothy became more than a medic, he became a lifeline for his fellow Sailors and Marines. He faced danger with quiet resolve, embodying courage and leadership in every situation. But it was not just his actions in combat that defined him, it was the bonds he forged, the lives he touched, and the unwavering loyalty he showed to those he served alongside.
When Timothy transitioned from the Navy, his commitment to service did not end. As a San Diego County Deputy Sheriff, he brought the same passion and care to his role in law enforcement. His deep sense of duty extended to his community, his family, and anyone fortunate enough to cross his path.
A Legacy of Love
Above all, Timothy was a father whose children were the center of his world. He poured every ounce of his love and energy into them, striving to be the best father he could be. Timothy’s parents, siblings, and extended family were his foundation, and he carried their love with him through every challenge and triumph.
Tragically, Timothy’s life was cut short on November 29, 2020, but his legacy endures. He lives on in the memories of those who loved him, the countless lives he impacted, and the lessons he taught us about strength, kindness, and perseverance.
A Call to Action
Timothy’s story is one of resilience, but it is also a sobering reminder of the challenges veterans face when they return home. The invisible scars of PTSD and the struggles of transitioning to civilian life take a devastating toll on too many of our heroes. Far too many veterans lose their lives to these battles every year, underscoring the urgent need for awareness, resources, and meaningful action.
With each canned purchase, we give back to veteran support initiatives chosen by Timothy’s family. Additionally, through our dedicated donation link below, 100% of funds will be directed towards trusted programs that provide mental health support, community connection, and assistance for veterans and their families.
Timothy’s life calls us to action. It urges us to listen, to support, and to advocate for those who have served. His legacy is a beacon, illuminating the path forward: providing resources, fostering connection, and offering hope to veterans and their families.
As Timothy once said, “You do not choose the body you are born in, but you can choose how to sculpt it.” Let this be a message not only of physical strength but of shaping our communities into places of love, support, and understanding for those who have sacrificed so much.
Carrying His Legacy Forward
Timothy O’Brian Clay’s life reminds us of the profound impact one person can have. His strength, compassion, and love for others are an enduring gift. As we honor him, we commit to continuing his mission, to serve, to protect, and to uplift those in need.
To Timothy, thank you for your sacrifice, your love, and your unwavering spirit. You will always be remembered not only as a hero but as a father, a son, and a man who showed us all the meaning of courage and compassion.
Your light will never fade, and your legacy will guide us as we fight for the veterans who carry on in your memory.
