Obituary of Mary Claire Cleary

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Mary “Claire” Cleary in her 84^th year, on September 22, 2024, at the Turnbull Nursing Home in Saint John, New Brunswick. Born October 22, 1939, in Moncton, New Brunswick, to her loving parents Gerald and Hazel (nee Fisher) Sansom.

Claire spent her early years enjoying dance, music, and summers on the Saint John River that gave her a love of nature and adventure. She could be found driving a motorboat and working in a hay field as much as learning to dance and playing in a dance band.

Claire loved to travel to many places as diverse as a big city or an African savannah. But her favourite places were her long-time home on Germain St. and Chalet in the Gaspe with her loving husband and partner Tracy, as well as many people who wanted to visit. Whether it was skiing, photographing nature, spending time with her children and grandchildren, or even salmon fishing, she always wanted to be on the go!

Claire’s real passion was people of all ages, no matter who they were – just being with them, caring for them and having fun. Naturally, she became a Nurse (SJGH School of Nursing ’60). She was a respected leader with a calm and gentle way of mentoring many staff around her. Claire forged life-long bonds through her schooling, work at the Saint John General and Regional Hospital, volunteer work with the MS Society and Trinity Church, and life in the local community.

Claire leaves behind her sons Michael Haycox (Gillian) and Greg Haycox (Tracey), stepdaughter Faye Cleary Allen (Patrick), brother David Sansom (Janet), son-in-law Mark McLaughlin (the late Janice), grandchildren Sarah, Spencer, Riley, Fisher, Adrian, Ella, Brittany and Mark, as well as her niece Diana, nephews Mark and Ian, and many extended family members and friends. She will be lovingly reunited with her husband Tracy Cleary, daughter Janice, and her parents.

The family wishes to thank Turnbull Home for their special care and love during Claire’s stay.

Arrangements are under the care of Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John, New Brunswick. The family will be receiving guests for visitation at Brenan’s from 2:00-4:00 and 6:00-8:00 PM on Friday, September 27, 2024. The funeral service will be held from Trinity Anglican Church (115 Charlotte Street, Saint John) on Saturday, September 28, 2024, at 11:00 AM, with a reception in the Church Hall, and interment at Fairhaven Cemetery in Salisbury to follow. For those unable to attend the funeral service, please feel free to join the family via livestream by visiting Claire’s obituary on Brenan’s website, and click the “Livestream” option.

Memorial contributions to the Canadian Cancer Society, Turnbull Nursing Home, or a charity of the  donor’s choice would be appreciated by the family. Online condolences may be shared at www.brenansfh.com.