Celebrating the Retirement of John D. Wilcox, M.D.

Clay Eye Physicians and Surgeons was founded 41 years ago by Dr. C.M. Harris and Dr. John D. Wilcox, created with a commitment to providing Northeast Florida with friendly service and advanced eye care. This patient mission has been represented over the decades by an expanding group of ophthalmologists at Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons, and the patient-first mission has continued on over the years without wavering.

Regarding his co-founder, Dr. Harris stated, “Dr. Wilcox is the consummate ambassador for ophthalmology: caring, compassionate and always willing to lead by example-both in and out of the office. Dr. Wilcox has always been known for his listening ear and ability to relate to his patients, invaluable qualities in medicine and in life. People have trusted Dr. Wilcox, and that trust has been earned.” Prior to founding Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons, Dr. Wilcox served as a Navy Captain and later in the Medical Corps as a Flight Surgeon and Ophthalmologist, retiring in 2002 after 33 years of service.

Reflecting on his career at Clay Eye Physicians, Dr. Wilcox stated, “Over the past 40+ years, Clay Eye has experienced tremendous growth and I am proud of the practice that we’ve built. While some things have changed, the focus on patient care never has. I’m incredibly blessed to have a wonderful, supportive family coupled with an amazing career. I am leaving my patients in competent hands with my incredible colleagues. As I reflect on my career, it’s heartwarming to know that I have cared for multi-generational families—from grandparents to grandbabies, and for that, I feel humbled and privileged.”

Our practice has grown immensely over the years, now with twelve practicing physicians, four locations, and a wide range of ophthalmic services available to the community. We offer comprehensive eye care in the following specialties: Glaucoma Surgery, Diabetic Eye Disease and Macular Degeneration, Laser Cataract Surgery, Cornea Surgery, Medical Retina, LASIK Surgery, Cosmetic Eye Procedures, Pediatric Ophthalmology, and Pediatric Eye Exams. In addition, we offer Routine Eye Exams, Contact Lenses, and Boutique Eyewear for the entire family.

We hope you will join us in congratulating Dr. Wilcox on his successful career and celebrating the positive impact our practice has held in the community!