Earnest Clayton Taylor

Earnest “Clay” Clayton Taylor, known as the “seagull man”, of Ocean Shores passed away on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at Harbor Regional Health in Aberdeen, WA.

Clay was born July 15, 1934, in San Antonio, TX to Charlie and Cynthia Taylor. 1 of 4 children, he was raised in Bethel for some time before moving to Redding, CA where he graduated Shasta High School in 1949. Clay joined the United States Marine Corps and bravely served in the Korean War. He would later receive his BA in Journalism from UCLA as well as a Master's degree in Structural Engineering. He made a career as a purchasing agent, working for a firm in Mexico, traveling back and forth, buying and drilling heavy equipment for over 30 years. Clay retired in 1989, and married Kelly McCord. The couple had 1 daughter, Callie. They later divorced.

Clay loved to fish, and after moving to Ocean Shores, discovered his passion for making both ceramic and driftwood seagulls. Known by the residents as the “seagull man”, sharing his artwork and joy with the community.

Clay is survived by his daughter, Callie Taylor; 3 brothers: Dean, Carl, and Jimmy Taylor; 30 grandchildren and great grandchildren; and 5 great-great grandchildren; as well as his many lifelong friends.

No formal services are scheduled as per Clay’s wishes. Please take a moment to share your condolences for the family at www.fernhillfuneral.com. Arrangements are entrusted to Twibell’s Fern Hill Funeral Home in Aberdeen, WA