Warner Claiborne Webb

Warner Claiborne "Clay" Webb, a devoted soldier, loving father, and cherished member of the Union West community, passed away peacefully on September 1, 2026, at the age of 97. Born on January 20, 1929, in Oxford, Mississippi, he was the son of sharecroppers and cultivated a strong work ethic from an early age, which he carried throughout his life.

At the age of 17, Clay enlisted in the United States Army, dedicating 27 years to service at numerous duty stations. He achieved the rank of Sergeant Major before his honorable discharge on December 13, 1974. Following his military service, Clay became a tactical officer at Lyman Ward Military Academy in Camp Hill, Alabama, before returning home to Oxford in 1982. He continued to embody hard work and dedication, lending his expertise to the Lafayette County Farmers Co-op and later to the Taylor Cotton Gin.

Clay's love for God, his family, and his community was evident in all aspects of his life. As a Deacon at Union West Baptist Church, he devoted countless hours in service to the congregation, reflecting his unwavering faith and loyalty. He was also known for his passion for gardening and meticulous yard work, which brought him joy and fulfillment in his retirement years.

In his personal life, Clay shared a deep and abiding love with his wife, Ella Webb, who predeceased him. Together, they enjoyed traveling and cheering on their grandchildren at numerous sports events. Clay is survived by his sons, Tony Webb and his wife Darlene of Waveland, MS, and Richie Webb and his wife Deb of Oxford, MS. He will be lovingly remembered by his eight grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Martha Herring.

Clay was preceded in death by his parents, Dewey and Pauline Webb; his beloved wife, Ella, and his siblings: Paul Webb, Wardean Webb, Gene Webb, James Webb, Lena Nicholas, Sarah Stringer, and Faye Gillespie.

The family will receive friends for visitation on Friday, September 4, 2026, at 5:00 P.M. in the Gardiner Room of Seven Oaks Funeral Home. On Saturday, September 5, 2026, at 11:00 A.M., a funeral service will be held at Union West Baptist Church, officiated by Reverend Derek Starnes.

In this moment of farewell, we celebrate the remarkable life of Warner Claiborne Webb-a man whose legacy of hard work, faith, and devotion to family will forever inspire those who knew and loved him.