Claire Lemay Obituary

Claire Theresa Lemay, 86, of Rochester, NH passed away peacefully on July 19, 2025 while surrounded by her loving family. She was the beloved daughter of Napoleon "Paul" and Kilda (Tessier) Lemay.

Claire's first and true love was The Lord. She dedicated her life to God. She was generous and selfless, seeking to hold everyone in her life close to her, and always praying for them. One thing her family mentions her saying often was "Thank God for God." She was a member of Holy Rosary parish for several years, then St. Mary's parish, both in Rochester. She was also a member of the Holy Cross Association.

Claire had an extraordinary and diverse background. While a 3rd grade teacher at the Holy Rosary School, she felt the call to serve her country, enlisting in the US Army and proudly serving as a nurse for many years. She also worked in insurance and at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, and was fluent in (Canadian) French as well as English.

Her work in the Army gave her ample opportunities to travel the world, and she often spoke of her time in Germany and Medjugorje, Yugoslavia. After her retirement, she continued her lifetime love of travel, motoring across the US. It is not surprising that she got her degree in Travel and Tourism.

Claire loved life, spending time with family and friends and dining out. The Sound of Music was one of her favorite movies, and she would often be heard humming a tune from it. Although she had no children of her own, her matriarchal presence was strong; caring for and helping her family. Everyone knew they could count on 'Aunt Claire' anytime. She would give you the shirt off her back if you needed it. She was deeply loved by everyone whose life she touched.

Claire was predeceased by her parents Napoleon and Kilda; her brother Richard; and her sister Priscilla Barquero. Claire is survived by nephews Joel Dupre and Richy; nieces Terrie and Vicky; grandnieces Ashley and Jade; grandnephews Collin and Merrick; great grandnieces Aurora and Kynley, and great grandnephews Tyshawn and Chance; as well as many beloved friends and additional family members.

Claire had a candid/frank disposition at times, yet always with a forgiving and generous heart to follow. She is going to be missed by everyone whose lives she touched with her selfless love.

SERVICES:

Visitation: Friday, August 1, 2025 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Grondin Funeral Home, 177 North Main Street, Rochester, NH.

Funeral Mass: Saturday, August 2, 2025 at 8:30 AM at St. Mary's Church, 71 Lowell St, Rochester, NH. Burial to immediately follow.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to one of Claire's favorite charities, such as St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.