David Wagley Slay, 74, of Moss Bluff, LA died on Tuesday, February 8, 2011 in his residence.
Mr. Slay was born June 2, 1936 in Many, LA. He was a 1954 graduate of Many High School and graduated from Northwestern University with his Bachelor's Degree in Physics. He worked as a professor at McNeese State University, where he taught Technology for thirty-seven years. Prior to his retirement in 2004, Mr. Slay received his Master's Degree in Engineering. He was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and previously served on the Zoning and Adjustment Board for Calcasieu Parish for several years. His joy in life was Ham Radio operating; obtaining his Advanced Class Ham Radio License at the age of fourteen. Mr. Slay was a loving husband, father, and grandfather and will be missed dearly by his family and "associates."
Mr. Slay is survived by his wife of twenty-seven years, Pat Hutto Slay of Moss Bluff; children, Keturah Woolston and husband Matthew of Lehi, UT, David Wagley Slay, Jr. of Katy, TX, and Nicholas Wade Slay of Moss Bluff; step-children, Angela Lee Hollander and husband Corey of Spring, TX, and Don Hatchell and wife Andrea of Provo, UT; sisters, Joan Beck and husband Vaughn of Carlyss, LA and Amelia Smith of Park City, UT; brothers, Michael "Bucky" Slay and wife Susan of Fisher, LA and Philip Slay and wife Wera of Bossier City, LA; and eleven grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Daniel David and Audrey Wagley Slay and first wife, Phyllis Roe Slay.
His funeral service will be at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, February 16, 2011 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Bishop Aaron Young will officiate. His graveside service will be at 3:00 PM on Wednesday at Many Cemetery in Many, LA. Visitation will be at Johnson Funeral Home on Tuesday from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM and continue on Wednesday at the church from 9:00 AM until the start of the service.
Bro. Slay was one of the nicest men I have ever known. It is rare to find such a person, with extreme intelligence, good morals, and loving kindness, all in one package. Godspeed, Bro. Slay. I know you'll work hard, beyond the veil.
David will be missed by his close friends and family and the absence will be felt until we are rejoined in the afterlife. We did not see him much but we feel the loss to the fabric of the Wagley clan. We regret we cannot attend the funeral but our prayers will be with the family. May the peace promised by the Savior be with all concerned.
Dear Family of David, There was only one David. He was a jewel of a man, a good man, a kind man, a funny man, a very smart man. He loved life and people. Will miss you cousin David. Love, Gene and Margie Barry
Dear Pat and Family, May God bless you and keep you during this difficult time. I am praying for you.
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Mr. Slay. I will miss seeing him out and about in the neighborhood.It is my prayer that the family will find consolation during this time of grief.Clarence Ethridge
I did not know David had died. I saw him about 3 weeks ago at WalMart. I worked with David at McNeese. To his family and friends, David was someone special and a wonderful friend
I first met David back in the 60's in Many La. His cousin Cole Wagley introduced us. I then went to Sabine Valley Vo-Tech where David was teaching. Even though I gave him a hard time in class and was frequently sent out back to scrape the rust off his antenna tower he had out back, we became very good friends. I always enjoyed talking to him and listening to his amazing stories about making electronic gear out of something different than it was intended for. He was probably one of the smartest and wittiest people I habe ever met. Back when satellite receivers were first being used in homes , he made me one for my house from a surplus government dish, a boat trailer jack and a mount that he and his dad made in the shop. Every time I think about David a smile comes to my face. He truly was an amzing person and will be missed. I hate that I didn't have the opportunity to visit with him more. My prayers are with all your family and I share the sorrow yo have now. May God bless you all.
Keturah, I am so sorry for your loss. I remember your dad always had a smile on his face. He was always friendly and kind. We are praying for you. Love you!!
My condolances to the family. Mr. Slay was a great teacher that inspired discovery and thinking. His passion for all things electronic and his love of family was evident in all he did.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Hold on to the memories for comfort. We will miss David's companionship, wisdom and laughter.
Pat and family, I'm so sorry to hear about David. Just wanted you to know you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Pat and Family,David will always be remembered as an extraordinary individual. Earl has many fond memories of his friendship with David. We are unable to attend the services, but our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Godspeed David!Earl Martha Thrift
Pat and family,Our deepest sympathy to all. David is such a wonderful man, and will be dearly missed. May you all find comfort in your love for him and one another.
Pat, my condolences go out to you and your family. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. May God be with you through it all.Love,Laura
Pat, my deepest sympathy and prayers go out to you and your family. I'm so sorry for your loss.Prayer, Hugs Love to you,Chandra
Pat, you are in my thoughts and prayers. Eloise Huber
Pat,I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I send prayers for strength peace to get through this difficult time and patience for yourself while you grieve.April Plata
Pat,Please accept my deepest sympathy. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
So sorry for your loss — I always enjoyed visiting with your father when he was here in Utah — I ejoyed his stories — –love –Margery
So sorry to hear of David's passing. Although it's been many years since we moved away, I'll always remember David's keen wit and sense of humor. I wish we'd had the opportunity to get together over the years. He will be missed.
We are saddened by the passing of this family member. David lived with us in SLC prior to marriage. He has been and remains a special friend and family member. He will be missed. Mack, Pat and Family