Newsgram

Francis R. Slay, one of St. Louis' political icons and Democratic patriarchs passed away on Wednesday, March 16 at the age of 83.  He will be missed by many, but his legacy of public service and his influence on St. Louis politics will be remembered for years to come.

Mr. Slay began his political career in 1964 with an upset victory to become Democratic Committeeman in the 23rd Ward.  In 1966, he was elected to the Missouri House of Representatives for the first of two terms. In 1970, he was elected St. Louis Recorder of Deeds and held that office until 1977, when he resigned to tend to the family business.

Mr. Slay also was a restaurateur, operating Slay's restaurant for many years and later overseeing The Cedars banquet hall at St. Raymond's Maronite Cathedral.

The funeral for Mr. Slay was held on Monday, March 21 at St. Raymond's.  During the service, Mayor Francis G. Slay, read from a letter he and his 10 siblings had written:

"It is difficult to put into words the joy and love you brought into our lives.  It is hard to describe the pride all of us share as your sons and daughters.  As busy as you were working to support all of us and helping others, you were an outstanding father.  You amazed us with the strength of your character, the respect others had for you, and the number of people you had touched and the lives you have changed."

Mr. Slay is survived by his wife of 59 years, Anna; five daughters, Sharon Geralyn Slay, Brenda Geralyn Slay, Ann Geralyn Slay, Maria Gerarda Greenwell, and Monietta Gerarda Slay; five sons, Mayor Francis Gerard Slay, Gerard Majella Slay, Michael Majella Slay, Raymond Gerard Slay, Leo Gerard Slay and Thomas Gerard Slay; a brother, Marianist Brother Leo Slay; a sister, Margaret Grana; 17 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

To Francis R. Slay's family, colleagues and many friends, the members of the City Service extend their deepest sympathies.