In loving memory of Claire May who sadly passed away on 7th June 2024 at the age of 85 following a long battle with dementia. Much loved mother of Eddie.
Family, friends, and others are invited to the Thornton Meadow Wildflower Cemetery, Ashingdon, Rochford, SS4 3JL from 11:00 on Tuesday 2nd July for the burial to reminisce and honor the life of Claire.
Kitty Clara May, otherwise known as Claire for most of her life, was born on the 24th August 1938. Sadly her mother passed away during her birth and so she was adopted by an Aunt and Uncle who had no children. Her father became her Uncle for many years until she found out she was adopted. Her father had had remarried and had another daughter Marilyn who Claire thought was her cousin, once she knew she was adopted she was delighted to know that Marilyn was her half sister.
Claire was, by her own words, a spoilt brat. Her parents doted on her and gave her everything they could including sending her to private school so that she was safe from bullies. Little did they know that is was Claire who was the bully! No one was going to push her around and this was to stay with her all her life!
Once Claire left school she met and married a man with whom she had Eddie, her son. Sadly the marriage didn't last and they divorced shortly after. But Claire worked hard all her life to support her son.
Claire then met Paul who she moved in with taking Eddie with her. This relationship lasted 17 years. When they did split Claire bought her beloved bungalow in Thorpe Bay. Eddie by this time and found his own path in life.
Claire didn't mind her own company but she was really a party girl and spent many a night out with friends and colleagues for meals and drinks. Claire worked for Barclays most of her life and then the Woolwich in a management position in Rayleigh. After she 'retired' from banking she worked at Pennicks estate agents until she was 75! She then decided it was time to rest on her laurals. So Claire treated herself to a little sports car and she and her wonderful dog Leo would cruise along the seafront together. Claire went to Southchurch park most days meeting up with other like minded doggy people. Claire would talk to anyone and would sit and chat for hours.
Although Claire was physically ok, the dementia came on quite quickly. After being cared for at home, eventually Claire had to have 24/7 care and so she went into a wonderful care home. The staff adored her and she was able to entertain everyone with her dancing, singing and jokes. But she started to fade away from us and the memories she had kept disappearing. After three years Claire slipped away peacefully on the 7th June 2024.
CLaire might have been small in stature by she had a HUGE personality and will be sadly missed by all who knew her.
My dearest friends Claire. Oh how I shall miss you, you made me laugh so much. You quickly became a part of my family, who also loved you. Your big personality kept us going through covid. Every day was a funny adventure with you. Sleep well my friend with Leo by your side. Forever together. xxxx
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