Claire Agnes McGuire

It is with deep sadness that the family of Claire McGuire announce her passing in Embassy Hall, Shannex Parkland in the Valley on January 2nd, 2024, in her 85th year.

Claire was dearly loved and treasured by all who knew her and will be greatly missed. Claire was a loving wife to the late Arthur McGuire of 59 years. Claire is survived by her daughter, Karen and son in law, Mike Gallagher, and Grandchildren Jane (Ryan Olson), Sarah (Alex Cardoso) and Julianna (grand-bunny Porsha) of Georgetown, Ontario. Claire is also survived by her sister Mary Lou Smith (late husband Kevin Smith), and many loving nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her beautiful daughter Beth, son in law Stephen Albans, sister Ann Patriquen (Mel), brother David Callaghan (Kay), parents Ron and Agnes Callaghan, and Sister Nora Kelly.

Claire was born and raised in Saint John and met Art in her early twenties, enjoying many dates on her late husband’s speed boat on the Saint John and Kennebecasis Rivers. Claire was a dedicated and well-respected employee at NB Tel and was a consistent warming presence, delighting everyone in the office with her smile and her coffee!

Claire decided to become a committed hospice volunteer all while pursuing her biggest dream of becoming a published author, a dream she achieved. Claire took different writing courses at UNBSJ after her daughters graduated high school to fine-tune her skills, leading her to become a published author, twice!

Claire was a devout Catholic who followed the Church’s teachings and passed those principles and values onto her children and family. Claire had an incredible amount of love to give, adored all children, and was the ultimate gift-giver to her family and truly anyone she met. Claire was generous and charismatic, always ready to listen, share advice and be a friend. Her Quick wit, endless supply of humour and a wonderful laugh allowed Claire to form bonds with those around her throughout her life. Claire consistently made everyone feel welcome and special with her genuine interest in those around her. An overflowing treat bowl was a non-negotiable parting favour leaving her home, or her room at the Shannex.

Claire was an avid gardener, which brought her great pleasure. She found joy in watching even the smallest flower bloom and would carefully move each tiny creature found in the mix. Her green thumb extended beyond her own garden, always looking to lend an extra hand if that meant more time with flowers.

When Claire became a grandmother, she realized her greatest joy in life. She dearly loved her “GGG’s”, her “Gorgeous Gallagher Girls”. Although her granddaughters resided in Ontario, it would be hard to tell with their frequent visits to Saint John, driven by their love for their grandmother. Much quality time was spent together, often around a competitive game of cards, featuring endless laughter! Claire loved spending time with her family on the river, always enjoying her son-in-law’s BBQ dinners, their witty banter, and a beautiful sunset.

We would like to extend our thanks to Dr. William O’Brien who was unfailingly there for Claire. Particular thanks to the RT, OT, SLP and Nursing staff at Extra Mural Hospital. We would like to thank Dr. Chris O’Brien and Dr. Fisher for their dedicated care for Claire during her time at the Shannex. Many thanks and love for the cherished and outstanding staff at Concord and Embassy Hall. The staff consistently showed love, compassion, and provided dignity and respect, along with expert care for Claire while at the Shannex. To you, we will always be grateful as Claire formed mutual and strong bonds with many special staff who will be remembered.

Claire will be significantly missed by all that had the privilege of crossing her path. Her bottomless love and kindness filled our hearts, and we are so thankful that she was ours. Thank you to family and friends for your endless support and love. Claire loved every single one of you.

Visiting hours at Fundy Funeral Home, 230 Westmorland Rd, Saint John (646-2424) are on Thursday, January 4th, 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm. Funeral Mass will be held at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, 31 Gondola Point Road, Rothesay, on Friday, January the 5th, at 11 am. Interment will be held at St. Joseph’s Cemetery.

To those who wish, remembrances to the Canadian Cancer Society, Heart & Lung Association, and Romero House in honour of Claire would be greatly appreciated.