Florence Mary (Mernie) Minto Clay

Florence Mary (Mernie) Minto Clay

She was born on August 24, 1899, and passed away on March 19, 1968. She worked as a legal secretary for Judge Alan B. MacFarlane during his time as a partner at Clay, MacFarlane, Ellis & Popham. Formerly known as Clay & Co.

Deeply devoted to her faith and community, Mary spent many years volunteering as a Sunday school teacher at St. Andrew’s Church, where her father served as the reverend.

We lovingly called her Mernie because, as a small child, my dad couldn’t pronounce “Mary,” and the nickname stayed. She was our favourite of all our great-aunts—gentle, patient, warm, and endlessly loving. Her kindness left a lasting impression on all of us, and she is remembered with great affection.