Clinton H. Muir, 93, retired Social Security administrator.
He was active with his church and mentored many young people.
ANYONE with a problem, no matter how severe - or even how minor - could count on a listening ear from Clinton H. Muir.
"If you needed it, he would plead a case for you," said his longtime companion, Goldie Kennedy. "He was a magnificent man, very generous, and always reaching out to help someone."
Clinton Muir, retired administrator for the Social Security Administration, a devoted churchman and civic leader, died last Monday of a heart attack. He was 93 and lived in Oak Lane.
Clinton retired in 1978 as chief of the Social Security Administration's Mid-Atlantic Program Service Center after 39 years with SSA. After his retirement, he became active with Berean Presbyterian Church, throwing himself into many of the church's programs. He was a trustee, member of the Men's Choir, president of the Men's Council and member of the Northampton Men's Choir.
He was the facilitator of two annual jazz events run by the church. He also was a member of the Philadelphia Presbytery Finance Committee for six years.
Because of his skills as an orator, Clinton was often called on to lead participation in many of Berean's activities. "He loved his church," Goldie said.
Clinton also joined in various community activities, including those of the Labor Management Equal Employment Opportunities Council. He was a member of the board of the Wharton Community Center, and a United Way trustee.
Clinton was born in Philadelphia to Elwood and Sadie Muir. He grew up in the Black Bottom neighborhood of West Philadelphia, a predominantly African-American community that was razed in the '50s and '60s for urban renewal.
He graduated from Central High School and later took courses at Temple University. He started with the government as a file clerk, and worked his way up to supervisory positions.
Clinton was concerned for the future of the young people he dealt with, and went out of his way to encourage them to seek higher education and supported them with his own resources when necessary.
He was a devoted fan of the Phillies and 76ers, and could discuss the team makeup and prospects with great authority. "He went to the games a few times, but didn't like the crowds and commotion," Goldie said. "He preferred to watch the games on TV."
Clinton loved golf, although he never played much himself. "He liked to watch golf because it was so peaceful," his companion said. "Not a lot of bodies slamming into each other."
Clinton also considered himself a whiz at card games, like poker and pinochle, and would challenge anyone who dared to pick up a pack.
He met his companion, Goldie, in 1997, and they were devoted to each other. He had been married twice.
Besides Goldie, he is survived by two daughters, Margo Walden and Gwendolyn Kennedy; three sons, Emmett, Henry and James; and four brothers.
Services: 9 a.m. Monday at Berean Presbyterian Church, 2101 N. Broad St. Burial will be at West Laurel Hill Cemetery.
