Obituary of Francis Clayton Pilgrim

Francis « Clayton » Pilgrim

January 8, 1939 – Februrary 10, 2025

It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Francis “Clayton” Pilgrim on February 10, 2025, at the CISSS de la Côte-Nord in Lourdes-de-Blanc-Sablon, QC.  Born on January 8^th, 1939, in St. Anthony, NL Clayton lived a life filled with adventure, dedication, and an unshakable love for the skies and sea.

Clayton was predeceased by his parents, Rosanna “Rosie” Martin and Francis Pilgrim  He is survived by his siblings, Hayward Pilgrim, Joan Koopman, Norma Jarret and Robin Pilgrim.

Clayton’s journey began in service to his country as a proud member of the Canadian Navy.  It was there that he developed a deep sense of duty, discipline, and commitment—values that would define the rest of his life.  Upon retiring from the Navy, Clayton pursued a new passion: aviation.  With the same unwavering dedication that marked his military career, he trained as a pilot, quickly earning a reputation for his fearless flying and unmatched skill in navigating the wildest of skies.  Whether delivering supplies to remote outposts or transporting people to hard-to-reach places, Clayton’s name became synonymous with reliability, courage and an intimate knowledge of the land and waters he flew over.

Clayton was known on the Lower North Shore of Quebec as “The Newfie” and in the aviation world as “The Salt Water Cowboy” for his signature cowboy boots worn while flying.  Clayton’s legendary career was recognized in Saltwire Magazine (“Those Magnanimous Men in Their Flying Machines – Veteran Bush Pilots”) and National Geographic (October 1993). 

Beyond his career, Clayton was a father to six children: Robert McClelland (Sue) of Cobourg, ON; Cynthia (Willard Mansbridge) of Saint-Augustin-Saguenay, QC; Joan MacDonald (Don) of Ear Falls, ON; Christopher Pilgrim (Jocelyne) of Lourdes-de-Blanc-Sablon, QC; Lisa (Francois Belec) of Aylmer, QC; and Rozanne of Gatineau, QC.

He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren: Katrina, Adam, Cole, Conner, Torri, Drew, Kade, Laya, Kassaundra, Lucas, Ashley, Dillon, Angus, Clayton, Adrien and Catelin along with 23 great-grandchildren.  His love for his family was boundless, and his legacy will live on in the generations to follow.

Clayton was a man who never met a stranger, forming friendships around the world.  His family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the team at Antoinette Malouin for their compassionate care during his final months.  Special mentions to his cousins, Cassie Pardy, Belinda Acreman and Herman Pilgrim for their unwavering support of daily calls and visits.

Though he may have taken his final flight, Clayton’s spirit soars on.  He will be deeply missed and forever remembered. If you would like to share a memory of Clayton, that the family can add to their tribute book, it would be greatly appreciated.