Claire Marie Gardner
May 21, 1952 - August 26, 2023
Claire Marie Gardner, age 71, of New Castle, DE, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, August 26, 2023.
Born and raised in New Jersey, on May 21, 1952, she was a daughter of the late Arnold “Hap” and Dorothy (Davis) Gardner. Claire enjoyed summers in Mobjack, VA, spending her days there crabbing and boating. She began her career with Christiana Care first as a nurse, then moving into managing MIDAS there. Claire stayed with Christiana Care until her retirement.
Claire had the biggest heart. Those who knew her remember how she had the ability to make each person in her presence feel loved and seen and cared for. You had to be careful to tell her about things that you loved or enjoyed, as she would then present you with those items in abundance. That was just how her heart worked. Claire also had a huge love for music and theatre and her trips to NYC to see shows or to watch her daughter perform were true highlights for her. Cast members will remember her passion for their performances and her quite hysterical “callbacks” for shows like ‘Rocky Horror’.
Claire spent the majority of her adult years at Immanuel Episcopal Church on the Green. Most of those years were spent in the choir, as head chorister, as cantor and much more. Claire truly had the voice of an angel. Hearing her sing was a blessing to all. She also served on the Vestry there and taught both Jr. and Sr. Youth Group for 7 years.
One of her proudest accomplishments in her singing was when she was able to perform with a choral group in Carnegie Hall in 1996. A true honor to her and a dream come true. Her other proudest accomplishments were for sure her grandchildren and daughter. Courtney was an only child and Claire worked tirelessly to ensure that she was happy and successful and loved. Her grandsons, Gavin and Reid, were her world. There was nothing she loved more than a Nerf gun battle or a good old fashioned “swordfight” or singalong with them.
In addition to her parents, Claire was preceded in death by her sister, Pamela Jean Ferguson. She is survived by her daughter, Courtney Clarke (Chris); grandsons, Gavin and Reid Clarke; brother-in-law, Paul Ferguson; and niece and nephews, Jennifer Berger, Jon Ferguson and Josh Ferguson.
Claire will be dearly missed by all those who were lucky to be loved by her. To quote one of her favorite musicals and songs “To love another person is to see the face of God”
A memorial service will begin at 11 am on Saturday, October 7, 2023, at Immanuel Episcopal Church on the Green, 50 Market Street, New Castle, DE.
Jackie Wehde
Thinking of you and praying for you and your family, please let me know if I can do anything ❤️
Paul Ferguson
Claire was a wonderful sister to to my wife Pam, sister-in-law to me, mother to Courtney, mother-in-law to Chris, and grandmother to Gavin & Reid. She brought love, caring, and beautiful music to everyone and will be greatly missed.
Jean Crawford
Claire was my favorite cousin. She was always so thought full and I have fond memories as kids .. we talked regularly and I’m surely missing her. Love you Claire .. RIP.
Caroline Zeitler
Sending love and hugs. She was an extraordinary woman with a beautiful, talented daughter.
Cheryl L Gardner
I only knew Claire for a short time when she lived in Springfield, Ma. She had so much love and energy to give to others. I remember she would carry her bike up 4 flights of stairs to her apt. and think nothing of it. She always had a smile and welcomed everyone. Sending our love, Cheryl and Carl Gardner
Rosie Tillman
My Dear Courtney. Heartfelt condolences from Rosie Tillman and Monet Tillman Horsey. Your mom was a beautiful person and a wonderful neighbor. Whenever she would see me walking with my son, she would come out and walk to my house with us. She will be missed on Calwell Drive. God is your comfort and strength.
Randi Shoremount Bly
Thanks for the heartwarming obituary. She was in my Mom’s Brownie troop with me. She was a beautiful girl and woman.
Pat Chicarelli
So sorry to hear of Claire’s passing! In school at SP, Claire was quiet but funny. She will be missed!