Cassius Marcellus Clay Sr. facts for kids

Cassius Marcellus Clay (November 11, 1912 – February 8, 1990) was an American painter and musician. He is best known as the father of Muhammad Ali, a famous three-time World Heavyweight Boxing Champion. Cassius Clay Sr. was also the father of Rahman Ali and the grandfather of Laila Ali. He married Odessa Lee O'Grady in 1934. His son, Muhammad Ali, once called him "the fanciest dancer in Louisville".

Who Was Cassius Marcellus Clay Sr.?

Cassius Clay Sr. was born in Jefferson County, Kentucky. His parents were Herman H. Clay and Edith E. Greathouse. He was named after a famous 19th-century politician, Cassius Marcellus Clay. This politician was a strong supporter of ending slavery, known as an abolitionist.

Clay Sr. had a sister and four brothers, including Nathaniel Clay. His family history suggests that his paternal grandmother, Sallie Anne Clay, was from Madagascar. DNA research also shows a connection to Archer Alexander, a notable figure from the 1800s.

What Did Cassius Clay Sr. Do?

Cassius Clay Sr. was a talented artist. He painted billboards and signs for a living. Besides painting, he was also a musician. He played the piano, took lessons, and even wrote his own music.

Around 1933, he married Odessa Lee O'Grady. When asked later in 1970 why he did not become a Muslim like his famous son, he explained that his talent was his "religion" because it supported him and his family.

When Did Cassius Clay Sr. Pass Away?

Cassius Clay Sr. died on February 8, 1990, at the age of 77. He passed away after having a heart attack while leaving a department store in Kentucky.

How Is Cassius Clay Sr. Remembered?

Cassius Clay Sr. has been shown in movies about his famous son, Muhammad Ali.

• In the 1977 film The Greatest, he was played by Arthur Adams.
• In the 2001 Oscar-nominated film Ali, actor Giancarlo Esposito portrayed him.