Claire L. Thomas, 78, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 17, 2025. A resident of South Hadley, Massachusetts for more than 25 years, Claire was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, wife, sister, aunt and friend whose gentle presence, deep faith, and unshakable love will be forever.

 

Born to Lucille M. Dupont and Fernand R. Daviau.  Raised by her grandmother Yvonne R. Dupont of Quebec, Canada. 

 

Claire lived a remarkable and unique life. In her younger years, she resided in a convent and studied to become a nun, guided by a strong spiritual foundation that stayed with her throughout her life. Her path changed in 1969 when she met the love of her life, James E. Thomas Sr., with whom she shared many cherished years until his passing.

 

Together, Claire and James raised five children: James E. Thomas Jr., Edward J. Thomas Sr. (Marilyn), Robert J. Thomas (Elizabeth), Philip J. Thomas, and her daughter Lovelle C. Thomas. Claire was predeceased by her son Edward J. Thomas Sr.

 

She was a proud and loving grandmother to Kiana S. Thomas, James E. Thomas III, Devon J. Thomas (Emily), Mariah M. Thomas (Dean), Edward J. Thomas Jr., Dayton I. Thomas (Victoria), Imani A. Thomas-Cruz (Enjol), Carly C. Thomas, and Isiah J. Thomas; and bonus grandchildren Brian Pacheco and Chynna Pacheco. She was also blessed with great-grandchildren Aniyahlee S. Calderon, Adrieana Calderon, Kayliann S. Thomas, Dean M. Meade III, Kiyonn N. Meade, Kaydenn L. Meade, and Kyrie J. Cruz. Claire also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and extended family whom she cherished dearly. She was predeceased by her granddaughter Kiana S. Thomas.

 

Claire was the eldest of ten siblings and shared lifelong bonds with Diane M. English (Donald), Marlene Caride (Antonio), Fernand R. Daviau, Lucille Derosier (Martin), Arthur Barcomb, Elaine Berlanger (Glen), Darlene McClain (William), Donald Daviau, Carol A. Lanney(Paul). She was predeceased by her brother Arthur Barcomb

 

Claire worked for 15 years at Photomont and later at Buckley Nursing Home as a dietary aide till retirement, where she brought kindness, patience, and compassion to everyone she encountered.

 

Family meant everything to Claire. She loved holidays; especially Christmas and Easter, and kept the spirit of celebration alive for all those around her. An avid Disney fan, she adored Mickey and Minnie and surrounded herself with the stuffed animals she lovingly collected. She enjoyed board games and cards, especially rummy and uno, which she played with joyful competitiveness. Her love of old-school rhythm and blues and soul music often filled her home with laughter and dancing. She also had a gift for knitting, creating heartfelt handmade pieces for her children and grandchildren. As well as donating several pieces to local churches and senior centers for others in need. She loved family gatherings and parties. She always wanted everyone over.  She lived for these moments to spend time with her loved ones and her fur babies Allie, Naynay, Mimmits, and Tiger that she just adored so much. 

Claire taught her children to always love one another and be there for one another, to say their prayers and always trust in God no matter the situation.

 

Above all, Claire was a deeply loving, spiritual soul. She helped anyone she could, offering comfort, generosity, and warmth without hesitation. Her legacy is one of kindness, resilience, and unwavering love for her family.

 

Claire will be profoundly missed, but her spirit lives on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

The funeral will be held Tuesday November 25 at 9:00am from the Barry J. Farrell Funeral Home, 2049 Northampton Street, Holyoke, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in Saint Patrick Church, Main Street, South Hadley, at 10:00am. Burial will be held in Notre Dame Cemetery. Calling hours are Monday November 24 from 4:00 to 6:00pm in the funeral home.