Born in New York City, New York, Clancy received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Fordham University in 1909 and a Bachelor of Laws from Fordham University School of Law in 1912.
[1] On June 15, 1936, Clancy was nominated by President Franklin D. Roosevelt to a new seat on the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York created by 49 Stat.
He was confirmed by the United States Senate on June 20, 1936, and received his commission two days later.
He served as Chief Judge from 1956 to 1959, assuming senior status on April 3, 1959.
Clancy served in that capacity until his death in New York City on March 2, 1969.