Thomas Gordon McClay (1960-2024)
It is with great sorrow that the family of Thomas Gordon McClay announces his passing on October 13, 2024. Thomas was born on June 12, 1960, in Middlebury, VT, to James and Shirley (Searles) McClay. Thomas’ deep love and devotion to his Catholic faith sustained him especially through the trials of this past year.
After graduating from Vergennes Union High School Thomas enlisted in the Army where he served with the 1-125th in Hawaii. Upon his return, he married the love of his life, Giselaine Mailloux, with whom he cultivated a loving marriage of 39 years. They settled in Ferrisburgh and their family flourished to include six daughters, one son, and the precious gift of 26 grandchildren, all of whom cherished their “Pepere”.
Thomas shared his incredible work ethic everywhere, including Mailloux’s VT Country Farm Market and as a master plumber at J.W & D.E Ryan’s.
He fostered a love for sports through his role as a soccer and basketball coach, greatly influencing many young lives. He deeply cherished moments with his family, whether it was gathering around bonfires, fishing, or simply being together. Thomas devoted his life selflessly serving and sacrificing for his family.
Preceded in death by his parents James and Shirley McClay, his in-laws John and Jeanette Mailloux, and his brother-in-law David Marshall. Thomas’s memory is honored by his surviving family. He leaves behind his wife Giselaine; children Nicole (Patrick) of Florissant, MO, Karrinne (Ben) of Ferrisburgh, Danielle (Christopher) of Florissant, MO, Natalie (Brandon) of Forestport, NY, Dominic of Ferrisburgh, Alyssa (Noah) of Steubenville, OH, and Ciara of Winchester, VA; his 26 beloved grandchildren; his brothers and sisters in law Ginette, Jackie, Denis, Ernest, and Paul; his siblings Jim and Gayle; many nieces and nephews; and his dear friend Dennis Senesac.
In recognition of his remarkable care, the family wishes to extend their heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Kinsey, Sarah, and Brittany of UVM Pulmonology, the Vergennes Area Rescue Squad and the Ferrisburgh Fire Department.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests with gratitude that memorial contributions be directed to givesendgo.com under Thomas McClay’s memorial fund.
The visitation will take place at Brown McClay Funeral Home in Vergennes on Friday, the 18th from 5-7 PM. A Requiem Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Burlington, VT, on Saturday, the 19th at 12 PM. Interment immediately following at St. Peter’s Cemetery in Vergennes. Reception to follow on the grounds of Mailloux’s Farm Market. Thomas’s legacy of love, commitment to his family, and involvement in his community will forever be cherished.
