R. Clinton Emery dead at 86

Harter Secrest & Emery partner R. Clinton Emery died Sunday. He was 86.

Emery joined the firm in 1954 when it was known as Strang, Wright, Combs, Wiser & Shaw. After spending his first year of practice closing numerous real estate deals, he moved into the firm’s corporate department, where he became a business lawyer working with Richard Secrest.

Together, they developed the full-service business law firm that it is today.

Emery’s death was announced in a news release from the firm.

“For Emery, practicing law was a personal service endeavor requiring intense commitment. He was known for his fierce client loyalty and exceptional work ethic. His clients were among the most important people in the world to him, and he made them feel it,” according to the release.

Emery, who retired in 1992, served in leadership roles with several organizations, including Rotary International, Fairport Rotary Club and Clifton Springs Hospital. He spent more than 40 years serving in various capacities for the Fairport Baptist Home Community Ministries, where, in 2013 he was presented with the Paul A. Vick Philanthropy Award. A Victor native, Emery graduated from Hamilton College and Cornell Law School.

“Clint was a legend in the Rochester legal community and at our firm which proudly bears his name,” said managing partner Craig S. Wittlin. “Clint set an unwavering standard for client service and left an indelible footprint on our firm. All of us who had the opportunity of knowing and working with Clint will miss him greatly.”

Emery is survived by his wife of 66 years, Barbara Hull Emery; five children, Marcia Nitschke, David Emery, Donald Emery, Jane Condon, and Daniel Emery; 14 grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren.

Calling hours are 3 to 7 p.m. Friday at Ravenwood Golf Club, 929 Lynaugh Road, Victor.

Funeral Services will be private.