Cleoda "Clay" Mayweather III

Cleoda “Clay” Mayweather III, age 50, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at Aurora St. Luke’s Medial Center in Milwaukee. He was born July 5, 1975, in Illinois, son of the late Cleoda Jr. and Lucille (Hall) Mayweather.

Clay was married to Timothy Bessette on October 8, 2016, but their relationship began in October of 1997.  Clay had a bachelors degree in history and international relations from UW-Milwaukee and worked for many years as an insurance underwriter.

Clay had many passions including traveling, sports, home improvement and theatre.  He will be remembered for all the social activities he planned and participated in and loved to host parties of all sizes.  His most fervent passion was gardening.  Anyone who visited his home was guaranteed to get a tour so he could point out all of his new and favorite plants.

Survivors include his loving husband, Tim Bessette and their son Benjamin.  Other survivors include his siblings Chris (Veronica) Mayweather, Andrea (Tyrone) Vanlandingham and Brandon (Izneida) Mayweather.  He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.

Clay was preceded in death by his parents Cleoda Maywether Jr. and Lucille (Hall) Mayweather.

Clay expressed a desire to have a celebration rather than a funeral.  This is a reflection of his desire to make people happy.  This celebration is being planned for July 4, 2026.  Details will be provided at a later date.