CLAYTON B. NICHOLAS, 54, passed away peacefully July 7, 2015, at his home in Las Vegas. He was born Aug. 22, 1959, in Fullerton, Calif., and relocated with his family to Las Vegas at the age of eight. Clay often enjoyed traveling to spend summers in Maryville, Mo., his family's home town, to visit with friends and relatives. Clay was an amazing son, friend and successful entrepreneur. He ran his own company Clayton Nicholas Design based in Las Vegas for nearly 30 years. During that time he became a well-respected employer and business person, servicing the hospitality industry by creating extraordinary special events and award winning advertising campaigns. He was an accomplished artist and musician and enjoyed sharing his talents with friends and family. Clay enjoyed traveling and experiencing new cultures which were reflected in his own art and lifestyle. Clay was also actively involved in several animal foundations, including support for dolphins, elephant poaching, canine adoption and pet therapy. He, along with his dog, Jax, were both registered pet therapists spending weekends tirelessly visiting hospitals and hospices throughout the valley bringing encouragement and hope to those with serious or life-threatening medical conditions. Clay is survived by his parents, Rita and John McCaffrey of Las Vegas; his brothers Mike Nicholas of New Jersey, and Mike and Sean McCaffrey of Las Vegas; a sister, Kathleen Drury of Illinois; and his close and long-time friends, David Zeiszler and Sandra Fraser. Clay will truly be missed by many. Inurnment of ashes will take place in a private family service at their home. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Nevada SPCA or the See Spot Run Organization in Boulder City.