WILLIE CLAY BOGAN

Willie Clay Bogan was born an only child to Curemyra Cheatham and Robert Bogan in Greenville, Alabama on December 8, 1935. After living in several cities, the family settled in Mobile, Alabama where he graduated from Central High School in 1955. During his time in high school, Willie, affectionately known as Bogan, met the love of his life, Pearlie Mae Goree (who preceded him in death). They fell in love and married in 1955 right after high school and were married 7 days short of 65 years. To this union, four children were born, Willie Regional Clay Bogan, Jacquii Renee Bogan, Terrance L'Audwin Bogan, and Clay-Leah Bogan who passed away as a young infant. The couple moved to northern California before finally settling in sunny San Diego. As a young man, Bogan enlisted in the United States Navy where he served faithfully as an aviation mechanic. After a decorated 20-year career in the United States Navy, Bogan retired as a Chief and Vietnam Vet in 1975. After retirement, he enrolled in San Diego City College where he earned an Associate's Degree in Real Estate. After college, Bogan pursued his love for working with his hands and became an entrepreneur, opening Bogan's Wood Creations. His love for woodwork served to transform everything related to cabinetry. Many kitchens in San Diego received makeovers at the hands of Bogan. 

As a vibrant member of the Skyline Community, Bogan joined the fraternal organization known as the Freemasons. During his volunteer membership he made many friends as the Freemasons taught moral, intellectual, and spiritual lessons about life and self-improvement. The Masons provided Bogan with a beautiful brotherhood with whom he enjoyed traveling, social gatherings, and having plain ol' fun. Bogan thrived on group activities and he looked to create any reason for friends to gather. Out of this love for fellowship and camaraderie, he and his close friends created The Club Opportunity San Diego, also known as, The Lotto Club in hopes of one day winning big! Bogan loved music and it was always a major part of his life. So much so that he couldn't wait for The Epicureans, a social club that his wife Pearl was a member of, to host their annual Lip Syncing show so he could perform one of his James Brown favorites. Bogan would practice tirelessly just so he could get a standing ovation at the end of his performance. His impersonation of James Brown was unmatched. His love for people and life made him a popular guest at any gathering. 

Bogan was well loved, because he gave love. He was charismatic, a jokester, and someone who would not only stand up for himself, but for others. He loved to give you a life lesson, always cracked a joke, and insisted that the Navy was ranked the best of the best. His sense of humor could lift your soul and turn even the grayest day into a blue sky. 

Friday nights were a signature Bogan affair: frying fish in the kitchen, enjoying music, and sipping on a drink. As Christmas approached, he'd play Mariah Carey's Christmas album every night, singing along with enthusiasm. Bogan also had a deep love for sports, was a great golfer, cherished time with his grandkids, and took great pleasure in watching the new buildings rise in 

downtown San Diego. 

Bogan was a man known for his insightful lessons and unforgettable phrases, often using terms like "jive turkey", "useless", and whenever he wanted to get a point across he would start with, 'WAIT, WAIT, WAIT!" He had a knack for offering practical advice on everything from navigating traffic to the importance of mental strength. To his friends, he was the life of the party and an enthusiastic club host. But to his family, he was much more he was our steadfast source of strength, love, reliability, and our very own superhero. 

On Tuesday, August 6th, Bogan rested from his earthly labor and into his eternal rest, joining his bride, in the presence of God Almighty. He leaves to celebrate his memory three children, Willie (Kimberly), Jacquii (Willie, deceased), and Terry; 10 grandchildren: Jennifer, Kristian, Candace, Teri Ashley, Willie, Jacquii (Rueben), Bethany, Rebekah, Leslie, and Michael; eight great- grandchildren: Dallas, Jayden, Calli, Fallon, Houston, Ezra, Zion, and Zane and a host of dear friends. He will be forever missed but held close in our hearts.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of WILLIE CLAY BOGAN, please visit our floral store.