Richard Edward McClary's Obituary
Surrounded by loved ones, Richard Edward McClary, 78, Executive Director of the Memphis Shelby County Safety Council, passed away on Monday, September 13, 2010. Mr. McClary received his undergraduate degree from University of Alabama and received his Masters degree at University of Memphis. Prior to his career with the Safety Council Mr. McClary was Director of Community Relations for Plough Broadcasting Company. He was a graduate and teacher of safety courses across many industries. Mr. McClary designed and implemented a nationally recognized program for law enforcement and emergency driver training. In addition to his many professional memberships he served on the National Credentials Board for Amusement Parks, the International Association of Fairs and Expositions and in an advisory capacity for the Tennessee Public Service Commission. His work and experience led to wide spread coverage in local and national industry publications as well as main stream media, including feature articles in People Magazine and, Southern Living. Mr. McClary was an Episcopalian, a member of the Church of the Good Shepherd and a former member of Christ Episcopal Church where he served many years on the vestry. He leaves behind his wife of 60 years Dr. Alicia McGehee McClary. Together they raised five daughters: Dr. Cheryl McClary, (Jim Montgomery) Asheville, NC, Susan McClary (deceased), Wendy White (Richard White) Atlanta, GA, Jenifer Tanner (Henry Tanner) Knoxville TN, and Kathleen Wilson (Mark Wilson) Cleveland TN. Mr. McClary leaves behind eleven grandchildren, Clint Montgomery of Charlotte, NC, Wyatt Montgomery of Ashville, NC, Ross White (Krystle) of Rochester, NY, Klie White of Atlanta, GA, Crawford White of Baton Rouge , LA, Joan Baird (Jon Baird) of Denver, CO, Neil Gandy of Austin TX, Amanda Gandy of Austin, TX, Foster Tanner of Memphis, TN, Emily Wilson of Cleveland TN, Adam Wilson (Julie) Cleveland TN, and five great-grandchildren, Ryan, William, Susan, Sebastien, and Rowan. Mr. McClary did not limit his role as father to his large family. He spent many years active in church youth programs and he was also “Dad” to hundreds of UTHSC medical students participating in community health programs led by his wife. During the holidays he shared his joy for the season by effortlessly turning his kind face and twinkling eyes into “Santa Claus” for children and adults alike. In his lifetime career as a Safety Consultant Mr. McClary inspired thousands to live their lives safely whether at home, on the road or at play. The effect of these programs will resound for many years. Mr. McClary gave “fun without fear” to the thousands who thrilled on roller coasters which he assured met safety standards. He was comedian, unexpected philosopher, and always a friend. His love and laughter will be missed, but the memories of the life he lived will be cherished by so many. We are saddened by his passing but his care and love will enrich our world for generations to come. The family requests any memorials be sent to: Little River Watershed Association, 1006 East Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Maryville TN 37804 in memory of Richard E McClary or through http://www.littleriverwatershed.org or, Tuckaleechee United Methodist Church, Townsend TN 37882; or, Church of the Good Shepherd, Memphis TN. Funeral arrangements entrusted to Memorial Park Funeral Home, 5668 Poplar Ave. Memphis, TN 38119, (901) 767-8930 “Behind the stone wall”.
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