In memory of
Raymond McClinton
August 4, 1938 - December 14, 2025
With profound sadness, we announce the peaceful passing of Raymond on December 14, 2025, in Mississauga. Predeceased by his beloved wife Joan (nee Hewitt) of more than 50 years. Devoted Dad to Ryan (Lisa) and Ashley, and Grandpa to Owen and William. Father of Kim (Peter) DeMerchant and Grandfather of Ricky of New Brunswick. Survived by sisters Margaret Livingston and Florence Shaw, predeceased by brother Frank McClinton, and parents Norman McClinton and Margaret Richmond, all of Belfast, N. Ireland.
Born in Belfast, Raymond emigrated to Canada in 1957 aboard the ocean liner, RMS Empress of England. At the age of 18 with nothing but a few dollars and an address in his pocket, Raymond embarked on the transatlantic journey from Liverpool to Montreal in search of opportunity and a better life.
After overcoming many hardships, that better life largely began when Raymond married his “Belle of Belfast City”, Joan, in 1969. He was a loyal and dedicated husband including many years as a primary caregiver, until Joan’s passing in 2022. He dreamed of being reunited with her, and we hope they are walking hand in hand, dipping their toes in Helen’s Bay.
Faithful and fastidious, Ray was also very funny. He loved a good joke, good craic, and could often be found with people gathered around him as he regaled them with a story - no doubt highly exaggerated! He was insatiably curious and loved to teach himself new things, whether it be building computers or learning Tai Chi. He loved animals, long drives, and the Manchester United football club – a sporting passion he was thrilled to see carry on in his beloved grandsons, Owen and William. Among his accomplishments, raising his children, Ryan and Ashley, are his proudest and his humour, work ethic, sense of fairness, and perseverance lives on in them both.
While Raymond lived in Canada for nearly 70 years, a large part of his heart remained forever “back home” in Belfast, where his remains will be returned and laid to rest. Until then, family and friends are invited to gather on Saturday, January 3 from 3:00pm to 5:00pm at The Simple Alternative, 1535 South Gateway Road, Mississauga in honour of Ray. If desired, memorial donations can be made to your local Alzheimer’s Society or a charity of your choice.
May the road rise up to meet you.
May the wind be always at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
the rains fall soft upon your fields and until we meet again,
May God hold you in the palm of His hand.
Born in Belfast, Raymond emigrated to Canada in 1957 aboard the ocean liner, RMS Empress of England. At the age of 18 with nothing but a few dollars and an address in his pocket, Raymond embarked on the transatlantic journey from Liverpool to Montreal in search of opportunity and a better life.
After overcoming many hardships, that better life largely began when Raymond married his “Belle of Belfast City”, Joan, in 1969. He was a loyal and dedicated husband including many years as a primary caregiver, until Joan’s passing in 2022. He dreamed of being reunited with her, and we hope they are walking hand in hand, dipping their toes in Helen’s Bay.
Faithful and fastidious, Ray was also very funny. He loved a good joke, good craic, and could often be found with people gathered around him as he regaled them with a story - no doubt highly exaggerated! He was insatiably curious and loved to teach himself new things, whether it be building computers or learning Tai Chi. He loved animals, long drives, and the Manchester United football club – a sporting passion he was thrilled to see carry on in his beloved grandsons, Owen and William. Among his accomplishments, raising his children, Ryan and Ashley, are his proudest and his humour, work ethic, sense of fairness, and perseverance lives on in them both.
While Raymond lived in Canada for nearly 70 years, a large part of his heart remained forever “back home” in Belfast, where his remains will be returned and laid to rest. Until then, family and friends are invited to gather on Saturday, January 3 from 3:00pm to 5:00pm at The Simple Alternative, 1535 South Gateway Road, Mississauga in honour of Ray. If desired, memorial donations can be made to your local Alzheimer’s Society or a charity of your choice.
May the road rise up to meet you.
May the wind be always at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
the rains fall soft upon your fields and until we meet again,
May God hold you in the palm of His hand.
Funeral Details
Show location:
Celebration of Life
The Simple Alternative - Mississauga
1535 South Gateway Road, Mississauga, ON, CANADA, L4W 5J1
Get Directions
Saturday, 3 Jan 2026 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM