Lillie Clay Leaves a Legacy of Giving
The first dollar donated to the mission of God’s Pantry Food Bank was taken from founder Mim Hunt’s own pocket. Mim started this work on her own, purchasing the food she gave away and the gas for the station wagon she drove. Once she began, it didn’t take long for others to see the good she was doing and pitch in with both food and funds. Today, the Food Bank receives more than 4 million dollars annually in donations from over 10,000 individual donors!
One of those donors was the late Lillie Clay. Lillie began as a volunteer at the Food Bank while in college – work that she continued for almost 30 years. She later expanded her support by becoming a regular donor as well. Her commitment to our mission was something she shared often with others, including her son, Dean, who became a frequent visitor after hosting his own birthday party fundraisers and lemonade stands to benefit the Food Bank.
While Lillie’s passing is a great loss to her family and friends and to the community, she left a legacy of giving to God’s Pantry Food Bank that continues on through those she inspired. Memorial gifts, which she asked to be made to the Food Bank in her memory, created more than 9,000 meals for individuals and families in need.
Lillie has also inspired new volunteers. Lillie’s friend, Jennifer Bradley, has followed Lillie’s example and joined the Food Bank’s SHIFT program, rescuing food from local restaurants and delivering it to organizations that serve hot meals. After her first shift, during which she delivered pizzas to a shelter, she said, “It went great today, and I’m looking forward to more. Thank you Lillie!”
Lillie Clay and family.
Lillie’s son, Dean, hosting a food drive for his fifth birthday.
