John McClay

1964 - 2026

John McClay

January 3, 1964 - March 1, 2026

John Francis "Johnny Mac" McClay, 62, of Mays Landing, N.J., passed away on March 1, 2026. Born January 3, 1964, John grew up in Brigantine, N.J., where he formed many lifelong friendships that remained important to him throughout his life. John spent more than 35 years working as a respected gourmet server throughout the South Jersey and Atlantic City restaurant community, where many coworkers and guests became lifelong friends. Most recently, he worked at Steak 38, and over the years served at many establishments throughout the region, becoming known for his professionalism, personality, and dedication to hospitality. Affectionately known to many as "Johnny Mac" or "Johnny 5x," John was larger than life. Loud, energetic, and unforgettable, he was often the life of the party and made sure everyone knew when he entered a room. If John walked into a room, you knew it immediately. He took great pride in the people around him and was one of the biggest cheerleaders for everyone he met. A passionate Philadelphia sports fan, John could often be heard enthusiastically spelling out "E-A-G-L-E-S… Eagles!" while cheering on all Philadelphia teams. He also enjoyed spending time on the golf course and never needed much of a reason to celebrate with friends and family.

He is survived by his devoted wife, JoAnn McClay, who was the center of his world and whom he adored; his children, Anthony Collins (Greta), Jonathan Collins (Heather), and Jillian Gormley and Brian Gormley; his cherished grandchildren, Rowan, Dylan, Logan, Brian, Fallyn, Liam, Nolan, Gannon, Reagan, and Dorothy; and his brothers- and sisters-in-law, Donna Blaszczyk (Ron), Anthony Volpe, Charles Volpe, James Volpe (Priska), Rick Volpe, Joseph Volpe, Claire Volpe, and Beth Brodheim-Frank. He is also survived by his big brother, Bob McClay (Lisa) of Brigantine and their sons, Alex and Michael. Bob was not only his brother but also his lifelong role model, someone John deeply admired and proudly spoke of often. He is also survived by his sister, Kelly McClay (Debbie) and their son, Matthew; and his sister, Mary Jo Schneider (Joel) and their children, Christine and Drew. John was also surrounded by an extended family of neighbors and lifelong friends. He shared a particularly close bond with neighbors, Jeff and Mariam "Myrt" Ordner, who became like adopted children to John and JoAnn over the years. Along with his lifelong best friend, Scott "Vito" Evans, and many friends from Brigantine and the local community, they were part of the circle of people who filled John's life with friendship, humor, and countless shared memories. He also held fond childhood memories of time spent with his Aunt Terry and cousins, Cliff, Paul, Chris, and Tara. John was preceded in death by his parents, Lucile Murray McClay and Allen McClay; his grandparents, Anne B. Murray and Dr. Clifford K. Murray; and his uncle, Clifford Murray.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a viewing on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Boakes Funeral Home, with reflections by family and friends beginning at 5:30 p.m. In honor of John's lifelong devotion to the Philadelphia Eagles, guests attending the services are encouraged to wear an Eagles accessory or Kelly green in his memory. True to John's well-known superstition, however, full Eagles attire is strictly reserved for game day.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to Atlantic Cape Family Support Organization, Inc.

Whether cheering on the Eagles, spending time on the golf course, or proudly supporting the people around him, John brought energy, humor, and loyalty wherever he went and will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Go Birds!

Info and Condolences: www.boakesfuneralhome.com

Boakes Funeral Home

6050 Main Street Mays Landing, NJ 08330