Nettie DeClay

In loving memory of Nettie DeClay. Born December 16, 1931 and entered eternal rest on August 1, 2022.

Survivors are her son, Hansen DeClay, Sr. (Rita); 6 grandchildren: Renita Ann Tate (Boyd), Hansen DeClay, Jr. (Aloyse), Harrisen DeClay, Ronita Sue DeClay, Renata Bahlen (Darren), and Harold Lee DeClay (Lenea);18 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great grandchildren; many nephews, nieces, and relatives. Nettie also took in and cared for Regina Johnson and Barney Colelay and raised them as her own. She is preceded in death by her late husband, Labon DeClay.

Nettie is a direct descendant and granddaughter of Sgt. William A1 Alchesay, known as Chief Alchesay, the last Chief of the White Mountain Apache people.

Nettie was a devoted follower of Christ and gave her life to the Lord in 1956, under the ministries of the late Bishops, Samuel Harris and Dennis Massey, Sr., of the Miracle Church.

She was well known as a seamstress by creating beautiful camp dresses. She loved the outdoors, fishing, hunting, wood cutting, a huge fan of her grandkids in academics and athletics, and by sharing her wisdom of our Apache history. She taught her family about faith, love, and devotion to family.

An important part of our history and knowledge keeper has left us. We were truly blessed to have had her live her life to the fullest at 90 years old. She is the true epitome of a resilient Apache woman who loved her people and was proud to share her story and words of wisdom.

There will be a one night wake beginning on Monday, August 8, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. at her residence 825 E. Banashley Road – FATCO housing. Funeral service will be held on Tuesday, August 9, 2022 at 1:00 p.m. at the Canyon Day Miracle Church with Pastor Lex Baha officiating. Interment will be at the Chieftain Cemetery in North Fork.

All tribal leaders, speakers, church ministers, and gospel singers are welcome to help us remember, honor, and celebrate the legacy of our beloved Nettie DeClay.