Anna Lee McClay

Born on August 30, 1934, in Mars Hill, Maine, Anna was the daughter of Thomas Mont McCrea and Clara McCrea and the younger sister of Robert McCrea. Anna shared a special bond with her father, a relationship she cherished throughout her life. She was especially fond of spending time as a child, and into adulthood, at the camp her father built by hand - a place she took great pride in throughout her life.

Anna met the love of her life, Vail McClay, as a child visiting her grandmother, who lived across the road from his family's farm. The two attended high school together and began dating when Anna was in eighth grade and Vail was a freshman. They were married for 72 years, a remarkable testament to their enduring bond.

During her school years, Anna adored her time as a majorette at Aroostook Central Institute, where she marched proudly in parades and twirled baton—one of many joyful memories from her youth.

Anna was a devoted homemaker who poured her heart into caring for her family. She created a warm, nurturing home where everyone felt welcome and always had what they needed. Anna, Vail, and the family enjoyed traveling together to visit "back home" in Maine, explore Vermont and Amish Country, and vacation in Island Falls, Maine, where they spent many treasured summers. She especially loved shopping trips with her daughter, Cam, where they were known to “shop till they dropped.”

Anna is survived by her husband, Vail McClay; her daughter, Carmelida (McClay) Lachance; and her son-in-law, Marcel R. Lachance. She leaves behind her grandchildren, Marcel Vail Lachance, Analicia Lachance, and Thomas Mont Lachance; grand daughters-in-law Jenny Dupré and Justina Aubrey; and great-grandchildren Riley Lachance and Vivianna Lachance. Anna was also adored by her extended family of cousins, nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews, who cherished her sharp wit, warmth, and generous spirit.

Anna had an incredibly close bond with her daughter, Cam, a relationship marked by love, laughter, and friendship. She adored, and was adored by, her grandchildren, who have fond memories of country music in her kitchen and watching Johnny Carson and David Letterman late into the night. She was fiercely protective, overflowing with affection, and known for a treasure trove of colorful sayings—most unprintable, all unforgettable, and sure to echo in family stories for generations. One favorite story captures her playful side: trying on a fur coat in a department store and roaring like a bear, just to make everyone laugh.

Anna had a strong personality and an independent spirit. She spoke her mind—especially when it came to standing up for the people she loved. Her cooking, notably during the holidays, brought everyone together. She rarely wrote down a recipe, and her family is still trying to replicate her famous macaroni salad—with varying degrees of success.

Above all, Anna will be remembered for her strength, humor, and fierce commitment to her family. She always made space at the table and in her heart for those dearest to her, leaving behind a lasting legacy that lives on in everyone who knew her.

She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

A visitation for Anna will be held Friday, July 18, 2025 from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at DellaVecchia Funeral Home, 211 North Main Street, Southington, CT 06489. A funeral service will immediately follow at 11:00 AM at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Peacedale Cemetery, 115-199 James P Casey Rd, Bristol, CT 06010.

To leave a message of remembrance for the family please visit: www.DellaVecchiaSouthington.com