Michael John Clay

He passed away at University Hospital of North Midlands – Royal Stoke Hospital, Hartshill on Monday, 12th August, 2024 after a brief stay in the wonderful Kingsley Rest Home, Wolstanton Marsh. Dearly loved husband of Valerie (Val) and they celebrated their 55th anniversary a couple of years ago, shortly before Valerie passed away in 2022. Michael was a devoted and proud Dad of Michaleen, Father-in-Law to Andrew, loving Grandad and mentor to Rhead (his absolute pride and joy) and to Gemma, Great-Grandad to Finlay Todd Paul, and cherished Uncle to Calvin, Jo, Tilly and Mabel. He was an absolutely committed and caring son to John and Margaret Clay of Penkhull, and he loved them with all his heart until their passing. Brother to Linda Theresa, uncle, nephew and cousin. Fondly remembered by the Woodhouse, Franks and Whittaker families. He was infamous locally, as a friendly licensee who managed social clubs, in particular the former Roman Catholic Club in North Street, Stoke and Leek Town Football Club, where he kept a great pint of Guinness and Bass that attracted the ale connoisseur from everywhere… also playing for snooker and darts teams. In his life, he worked as a butcher and manager for Fine Fare, Tesco and then at Diamond Refractories, Stores Manager and a Local Government Officer for Stoke-on-Trent City Council. He managed car parks and conveniences with so much respect for those who he worked with and was proud to work for the good of the City. Fondly remembered by his friends and neighbours in Trent Vale and just about anyone who would stop to chat to him in the street. ‘The Isle of Wight will miss the man who sorted many a new bar and club’s ‘beer’ – that started with Mick tasting their pint and teaching them how to ‘keep’ a good barrel and pint. Obviously, visiting them throughout his holiday every year.’ Michael’s final goodbye and celebration of his life will be held at Stoke Minster, St Peter ad Vincula (St Peter in Chains), The Civic Church to the City of Stoke-on-Trent, Glebe Street, Stoke, ST4 1LP on Friday, 6th September, 2024 at 10.45 a.m. His burial will be held with immediate family only at Hartshill Cemetery and his family would ask you to make your way to a good old send off to be announced at the service. Michaleen, Andrew, Rhead, Gemma and Finlay would like to thank you for your condolences, thoughts and prayers. They would also sincerely give their thanks to The Community Matrons, in particular Michelle Blagg, Morlich Barnett and to District Nurse – Mo, to Gemma Lloyd of the High Intensity Service (HISU) from WMAS and Dougie Mac Team 2, who were all there, without question, when others were not. To Edens Care (who we would recommend for daily care of loved ones) without them, we couldn’t have done it; Linda, Daniel, Mary, Lloyd, Promise, Sampson, Bruno, Vanessa and all. Finally, to Nichola and all at Kingsley Rest Home, Wolstanton and those on shift when Dad became poorly, especially Rita. You are all great and caring people. Dad loved lots of things besides his family, he loved feeding his birds, loved his garden, enjoyed a gossip and going to Stoke City; wherever they were in the league. We would ask for no flowers please. So donations will be used for commemorative bird feeders at his beloved Waverley Park in the Isle of Wight and Kingsley Rest Home, or a donation payable to his favourite charity RNLI Royal National Lifeboat Institution. Friends and family wishing to honour Michael/Mick are invited to make a donation, payable to Michaleen Hilton (for bird feeders) or the RLNI (on your envelope please say supporter number 601192558) and this will go directly to Bembridge Lifeboat Station on the Isle of Wight (for your convenience their charity envelopes will be available at Stoke Minster).

‘We are eternally grateful to you.’ 

All enquiries to Kevin Lownds Family Funeral Services on 01782 914777