Thomas Claude McClay

Tom was a Marine Aviator who successfully flew 285 combat missions in Vietnam. He accumulated approximately 4,000 flight hours in many of the Marine Corps’ aircraft, and he particularly enjoyed flying the F8, F4, and A4. For his service in Vietnam, he received many awards, but the one he was most proud of was his Distinguished Flying Cross.

A lifelong learner, Tom obtained a Bachelor of Science in Anthropology from Penn State University as well as a Master’s in Counseling and Guidance from Troy State University.

After 20 years of service, Tom retired from the Marine Corps as a Lt. Colonel. Immediately after retirement, he began his second career as an insurance representative. He obtained his Chartered Life Underwriter and the Chartered Financial Consultant from the American University.

Tom continued to serve in a third career as a school counselor in the Craven and Onslow County School Systems for five years.

Thomas Claude McClay was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He is survived by his wife of 60 years June Ridenhour McClay of the home; two sons Thomas (Tom) Claude McClay, Jr (Ellen) of Cary, NC, and William (Bill) Matthews McClay (Beckie) of New Bern; daughter Ellen McClay Scarborough (Marty) of Lillington, NC; five grandchildren; his two sisters Peggy Haywood of Rapid City, SD, and Judy Manfredi of Summerfield, Fl. He was preceded in death by his parents Claude and Lois McClay.

The family invites friends to a Celebration of Life Service, followed by a reception at Centenary United Methodist Church on Saturday, April 15, at 2 p.m. A private interment will be at Greenleaf Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Centenary United Methodist Church, 309 New Street, New Bern, NC 28560 and Craven County Hospice, PO Drawer 12610, New Bern, NC 28561. Cotten Funeral Home is honored to serve the family and friends of Thomas McClay.