Claiborne Bird Dodson Jr.

Claiborn Bird "Clay" Dodson died April 7, 2026, in Amarillo.

A graveside inurnment is planned for  Saturday, June 13, 2026  at 1:00 pm in the Texhoma Cemetery in Texhoma, Texas.

Clay Dodson was born three miles east of Texhoma on July 30, 1938, delivered by his aunt when the doctor did not arrive in time. He was the son of Red Dodson and Buelah Shields Dodson, and the younger brother of Joe D. Dodson.

He spent much of his early life on the family ranch north of Dalhart, Texas, and in Texhoma, where his family operated the Dodson Dry Goods Store. At the age of 10, Clay began attending Missouri Military Academy in Mexico, Missouri, where he later graduated. He went on to attend Texas Tech University for his undergraduate studies and earned his law degree from the University of Oklahoma. Clay practiced law for many years and served as an Assistant District Attorney in Amarillo, Texas under Danny Hill in the 1980's. He was a dedicated professional, known for his sharp mind and steady character.

Outside of his career, Clay was an avid gun collector and an accomplished marksman. He also had a deep love for travel and explored every continent except Africa and Antarctica.

He was married to Charlene Bull of Spearman, Texas, who preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his parents, his brother, and his cousin, Laura Anne Berry of Texhoma, who was like a sister to him.

Clay is survived by his cousins: Andy and Lenora Berry of Texhoma, Texas; Brannock and Oralia Berry of San Antonio, Texas; Barbara Berry of Albuquerque, New Mexico; Lee Berry and Deanna Funderburg of Hedley, Texas; Levi and Jesse Berry of Happy, Texas; Ace and Amy Berry of Texhoma, Texas; Kelton Berry of Hart, Texas; Olin Berry of Amarillo, Texas; Daisy Berry of Happy, Texas; Emily Berry of Happy, Texas; Jane Berry of Happy, Texas; Jacqueline Berry of Texhoma, Texas; and Taggert Berry of Texhoma, Texas.

He will be remembered for his dedication to his profession, his love of the land and family heritage, and his adventurous spirit.