McClary Scott, Sr.

On June 1, 1943 McClary Scott was introduced to the world and to  his  parents James and Lillie Scott, and his 11 other siblings: Ransom, Novella, Hattie Mae, Martha, Mary, Nathaniel, Emmanuel, James, Earnest, Simon, and Millie.  He was later joined by Levi,  Doctor White, and Allen. He grew up in Summerton, South Carolina; a small town that is large in love and rich in history.

McClary was affectionately known as “Clay” and to his close family and friends his nickname was “Pud”.  He was educated in South Carolina in Clarendon County Public Schools.  He was a proud graduate of the class of 1964 at Scott’s Branch High School.  In his younger years while he was a student, he played basketball and he could dance like no one else.  He spent his summers working with his brothers  in Miami Florida so that he could  come back to school sharp and ready. After graduating from Scott’s Branch, he relocated to Philadelphia where he resided until his passing.  He was proud of his southern heritage and went back home to Summerton as often as he could. 

Clay began working in the hotel industry and remained true to his gift and calling for over 60 years.  He worked at the Penn Tower Hotel, The Philadelphia Convention Center, The Sheraton Hotel, Bogart’s Restaurant as well as various catering companies throughout the city. He was featured in the Penn Tower   marketing brochure, dressed in a tuxedo doing what he loved to do.  He had a gift for preparing, and serving food and people.  He could make you feel like you were his top priority when you were with him.  He was proud of his work, he was gifted to serve, and he moved with dignity and respect.  He was always ready to lend a helping hand and did so very often. Clay worked hard and made sure that he did not have to go without and stressed the importance of good work ethic to everyone. 

 Clay’s companion of 34 years, Clara Glenn  preceded  him in death. Clay had three children; John, Delma, and McCleary Jr. (Lil’ Clay).  Both of his sons preceded him in death. Clay loved his children and was always honored to converse about them and what they meant to him.  He always enjoyed spending time with his family.  He loved family reunions, cookouts,  holiday gatherings and being in the presence of his nieces and nephews laughing, joking, and having a good time.  He was always both real and relevant.  He would shock you with the latest song or slang and get the most hardy laugh ever.  He was dependable and fun to be around.  When he was not at work, he would watch basketball and he was well versed about the players and their stats. He had a personality and a smile that could just draw you in but he would put you in line in a heartbeat if you got out of order with him.

He had many friends and he loved and respected them all but his siblings especially his brothers meant the world to him.  He talked often to his brothers and hung out often.even to the very end . One of their favorite pastimes as brothers was to sit and share a meal together.  They stuck together through thick and thin.  The brothers worked together in two family businesses’ Scotty’s on 52nd Street, and most recently at the Crimson Cafe.  Those times were special because although that was work, it was also a time to connect, to bond, and to support each other.

We consider it an honor to have been able to love and enjoy Clay. He was truly one of a kind . We will cherish his memories and ensure that his legacy lives on through us.

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