Clay Calderwood
October 9, 1952 – April 25, 2024

With family close by, and as the tides went out on April 25th, 2024, Clayton Alexander Calderwood passed away peacefully after a long battle with a neurodegenerative disease.

He was born to Constance and Owen Calderwood on October 9, 1952, in Beaufort, South Carolina and was raised in Ridgewood, New Jersey. After graduating from Massachusetts College of Art, he apprenticed with Harry Holl at Scargo Pottery in Dennis, MA. Born with the name Clayton he was destined to become a potter. After building his own house and pottery shop with Andy Shrake in Brewster, he opened Clayton Clayworks. As a well known Cape Cod potter, Clay was most popular for his rustic big pots, his “kissy lips” fish platters and functional stoneware.

Clay’s inspiration originated from summers at “the cottage” and spending time on the beach doing all things kids did back in the 60’s and 70’s! He would say “Let’s go to the beach! Remember you’re a human being!” Other Clayton quotes include “my beach, my wave“, “Clay’s the way,” and “CONE 10!” He was fascinated by science and science fiction, loving Scientific American, and the television series, Doctor Who. He read the New Yorker cover to cover and loved listening to rock and roll and the blues.

We will remember Clay as a loving Dad, an adventurous and fearless brother, a teacher at heart, and a friend for life, and from knowing and loving Clay, we are more compassionate human beings. Clay is survived by his daughter Rubyanne Calderwood and his son Alec Calderwood, and his loving former wife Beth Calderwood. Other survivors include his sister Lucy Hersey (Richard) and his brothers Jamie Calderwood (Sarah) and Bill Calderwood (Robin) as well as his many nieces and nephews. Clay’s family is grateful for the compassion and loving care provided by the staff at The Terraces in Orleans. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Cape Cod Potters, or, The Animal Rescue League of Boston.

A private celebration will be held in the fall.

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