Claire M. Hoskins

WATERVILLE -- Claire M. Hoskins passed away on Friday, June 3, 2011, at Oak Grove Nursing Center with her husband by her side, after many years of illness. She was born June 14, 1942, in Cambridge, Mass., the daughter of George and Evelyn Donahue. She was later adopted by Clara and John Hagherty, who raised her. Claire moved to Waterville in 1958 and married James McGowan in 1960, with whom she had five children. She later married Harold Hoskins and spent the last 27 years of her life with him.

Claire enjoyed spending time with her family. She loved to knit and made many wonderful things for her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She also enjoyed ceramics, crocheting, dancing and reading. Claire worked for Rich's Department Store for many years and as a receptionist in the J.C. Penney's Styling Salon. During the past few years, she enjoyed the activities and outings provided by the nursing home staff and the musical entertainment that the nursing home hosted.

Claire was predeceased by her first husband, James McGowan; her son, Johnny; her brothers, Bobbie, John, Dick, James, Paul and Phil; and sister Pat. She is survived by her husband, Harold, of Waterville; her daughters, LeeAnn Price, Laurie Tuck, Dawn Braley and Bernadette Finch, also by Brett Hoskins, Penny Bard, Robin Withee and Michelle Greene, their spouses and her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, of which her first grandchild, Jennifer Seluke, will always hold a special spot in her heart. She is also survived by her sister, Penny Strub; and her brother, George Donahue. She will also be sadly missed by a very special friend of many years, Ted Murray, who visited with her often.

A memorial service will be held at Blessed Hope Church, 10 Pleasant St., Waterville, on Wednesday, June 8 at 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Claire's memory to the Oak Grove Nursing Center's Activities Group; or HealthReach Hospice.