Report of the Pioneer Society of the State of Michigan
Vol. VII 1885
Lansing, Michigan
W. S. George & Co.,
State Printers & Binders
Page 344

BAY COUNTY
Memorial Report
DEATH OF WILLIAM L. FAY

     William L. Fay departed this life at 1:30 o'clock yesterday afternoon, February 14, 1884, at his residence on Center street, opposite the court house, aged fifty-eight years.  Mr. Fay had been ailing with Bright's disease of the kidneys , and some time ago was so seriously afflicted that his life was despaired of; but, rallying, he became stronger, and was able to drive about the streets.  About three weeks since, he had another attack, which terminated in his death.  The announcement of his death spread rapidly through the business portion of the city, and was received with sincere regret.
     William L. Fay settled in Lower Saginaw in 1854, coming from New York State.  Upon coming here he took an interest with George Lord in the lumber business, but in a short while went into the mercantile business with B. B. Hart.  In 1860 he engaged in the manufacture of lumber with C. W. Grant, the firm named being Grant & Fay.  This firm continued until 1863, when the mill burned.  S. G. M. Gates then purchased Mr. Grant's interest in the real estate, and the firm became Gates & Fay.  The mill was rebuilt  and the firm continued until about two years ago, when Mr. Fay, having accumulated considerable wealth, retired, investing a portion of his money in the celebrated McGraw farm and the Munger block on Center street.  He also retained his interest in the real estate and pine lands of Gates & Fay.
     Mr. Fay was one of Bay City's respected and honored citizens.  He was president of the village in 1861, mayor of the city in 1868, and had held several other local offices of trust.  He took the first census of Bay County when the shore territory and cities were included therein.  He was a native of Hamilton, Madison County, New York.
     Deceased leaves a widow and one daughter, Mrs. Frank E. Tyler.   Of his family, two brothers and two sisters survive him, the latter being Mrs. George Lord, of this city, and Mrs. Gilbert, of New York State.  His relatives have been telegraphed for and will arrive in time for the funeral, an announcement of which will be given tomorrow.

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