Claire A. (Leach) Hammond, 94, of Acushnet, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, March 4, 2026. Born in New Bedford she was the daughter of the late Robert Leach and the late May (Bardsley) Cozzi and loving wife to the late Richard E. Hammond.
Claire dedicated much of her life to caring for her home and family. She created a warm, welcoming place where stories were told, and everyone who walked through the door felt at ease. She cherished all visitors and especially lit up when her grandchildren showed up. An avid reader, she rarely went a day without a book nearby. She delighted in stories of all kinds and believed that reading was one of life’s great pleasures. Just as cherished were her crossword puzzles. Her Christian faith was the guiding light of her life, shaping the kindness, patience, and compassion she showed to everyone around her. Though most of Claire's time was spent as a homemaker she held a few positions throughout her life; an associate at Acushnet Co., a waitress at A&W and a store clerk at CVS.
Claire is survived by her children; Sharon Currin, Cheryl Strawn and her husband Lee, Gary Hammond and his significant other Deborah Mello, Thomas J Hammond and wife Anne, Christine Alexandre, Laurie Krupa and her husband Jeff; grandchildren, Nathan Currin, Jessica Dories, Rebecca Shelatz, Deborah Orr, John Hammond, Thomas J Hammond Jr., Steven Hammond, Kathleen Hammond, Angela Cabral, Allison Isherwood, Jonathan Alexandre, Robert Krupa, Thomas Krupa; 18 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her sister, Arlene Berube.
In accordance with her families wishes, services will be private.
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223 Ashley Blvd, New Bedford, MA 02746

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