Albany County Legislature Mourns the Passing of Bill Clay

The Albany County Legislature mourns the passing of former Legislator William M. Clay, known to many as Bill or "Mr. Clay."

Over a 50-year career in state and county government, his leadership, perseverance, and commitment to community empowerment leave a lasting legacy.

Originally elected to Legislative District 12 in 2004, Clay served as a legislator for over 20 years and was a founding member and former Chairperson of the Albany County Legislative Black Caucus. He resigned from the Legislature in late 2024.

Originally from Little Rock, Arkansas, Clay moved to Albany at seven and went on to be a Capital Police Officer, union leader, business owner, and Assistant Commissioner at the New York State Office of General Services (OGS), where he oversaw Minority- and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (MWBE) and community relations.

Throughout his career, he used his platform to advocate for policies addressing systemic inequities and left an ongoing legacy of commitment to justice, equity, and community empowerment. His leadership continues to inspire those striving to make a meaningful difference.

Services for Clay have yet to be announced.

Albany County Legislature Chairwoman Joanne Cunningham said: "There is no superlative too grand to express my respect, admiration, and awe of the legacy that Bill Clay leaves us. He was a pillar of the Albany County Legislature and gave voice to those who needed it most. His legacy and advocacy will continue to drive us to ensure that the Legislature serves all of Albany County fairly and equitably."

Albany County Legislature Deputy Chairwoman Wanda Willingham said: "Mr. Clay holds an exalted place in Albany politics for African-Americans. He was an example and a symbol of success, understanding, class, persistence, and advocacy. He was a role model and an inspiration. I will miss him dearly and continue to keep the lessons he taught me in my heart and pass them along to the next generation of leaders in Albany County."

Albany County Chair of the Legislative Black Caucus Dr. Carolyn McLaughlin said: "Mr. Clay has held, and will always hold, a special place in the hearts of the Albany County community, especially within the Legislative Black Caucus. He was not only a trailblazer and role model, but also a powerful example of unwavering dedication to equity and meaningful change for all. As a co-founder and former Chairman of the Legislative Black Caucus, Mr. Clay's leadership helped shape our mission and values. It is a profound honor to follow in his footsteps. He will be deeply missed, and we are committed to carrying forward his enduring legacy."

Albany County Legislature Democratic Majority Leader Dennis Feeney said: "Bill Clay was a trailblazer whose decades of service shaped Albany County for the better. He led with purpose and compassion, working to expand opportunity and make government more inclusive. By uplifting marginalized voices and helping establish the Legislative Black Caucus, he made equity and representation a priority. His legacy will continue to guide us."