Claire A. Benoit, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished matriarch, passed away peacefully on June 9, 2025, at the age of 98. Born on March 10, 1927, in Somerville MA, she was the treasured daughter of Leo and Mary Jane (Doiron) Boudreau and the last surviving of twelve siblings.
Claire’s warmth, wit, and unwavering love made her the heart of the family. Known for her adventurous spirit and incredible sense of humor, she had a way of lighting up any room she entered. Her brother once described her perfectly as a “firecracker”—a title she proudly lived up to with her energy, charm, and fearless authenticity.
She was a natural nurturer and a gracious host—her home was always open, and her table never too full. Family, friends, and even strangers were drawn to her kindness, welcomed without hesitation, and left feeling like they belonged.
Claire was predeceased by her devoted husband of 57 years, Peter Benoit, her beloved granddaughter Olivia, and her daughter-in-law Ann Marie. Though they are no longer here, their memories were carried lovingly in her heart every day.
She leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter in her sons, Alfred, Eugene, and Lionel; her dear daughter-in-law, Nellie Anne; her grandchildren Daniel, Marcel, Elise (Matt), Emily (Clay), and Taylor; and her great-granddaughters Ellington and Maisie. Her many nieces and nephews also mourn the loss of this incredible woman.
Claire was able to maintain her independence due to the support and care of special family members, Dianne and Wesley, and Lori and Jenna.
A Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 12, 2025, from 5PM to 7PM at Phaneuf Funeral Home, 172 King St, Boscawen NH. Additional services will be held at a later date in Nova Scotia.
Her legacy lives on in the family she nurtured and the lives she touched. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
172 King Street, Boscawen, NH 03303
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.
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