Claire Florence Hounchell

Claire Florence Hounchell, age 83, passed away peacefully on May 2, 2025, at Twin Lakes in
Montgomery, Ohio. A devoted wife, loving mother, proud grandmother and great-grandmother,
and tireless volunteer, Claire lived a life marked by deep compassion, strength, and a joyful spirit
that touched everyone who knew her.
Claire was born and raised in Central Falls, Rhode Island, in a close-knit French-Canadian
neighborhood where she spoke French before learning English. After high school she moved to
Washington, D.C., to work at the Pentagon-an adventurous step that would shape the course of
her life. There, she met the love of her life, Gerald Hounchell, an Air Force Airman stationed at
Andrews Air Force Base. The two married in 1962 and built a life together defined by devotion,
humor, and shared purpose.
Claire was the heart and soul of her family. She raised three sons-Jerry, Eric, and Dan-with
unwavering love, resilience, and a sharp wit. She instilled in them the values of drive, toughness,
and the healing power of laughter. Claire also set an enduring example as a working mother,
spending over 20 years at GE Aircraft Engines in Evendale before retiring.
In the second chapter of her life, Claire thrived as a grandmother and great-grandmother,
delighting in the stories, achievements, and adventures of her growing family. Her boundless
love extended far beyond family, as she embraced a long and celebrated commitment to
volunteer service within the Montgomery community.
Claire was a dedicated and longtime member of The Community of the Good Shepherd Parish,
where she supported initiatives such as the Mary Magdalen House Winter Needs Drive, the
Christmas Gift-Giving Project, and outreach efforts for Whitley City, Kentucky. She was also a
proud member of the Montgomery Woman's Club, where she co-chaired the Membership and
Basket Committees for the Spring Luncheon and Fashion Show.
As a fluent French speaker, Claire served for many years on Montgomery's Sister Cities
Commission, helping foster cultural exchange with Montgomery's sister city, Neuilly-Plaisance,
France. She was lovingly known as "the wine lady" for her longtime leadership of the Bastille
Day wine booth and also co-chaired the city's Downtown Holiday Decorating Project.
In 2021, Claire's extraordinary dedication to her community was formally recognized by the
Montgomery City Council with a proclamation and a permanent place in the city's "Volunteer
Walk of Fame" in Montgomery Park.
Claire is survived by her beloved husband, Gerald Hounchell; her sisters, Lucille Robbins and
Yvette Dargy; and her sons, Jerry, Eric, and Dan Hounchell. She also leaves behind
grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family, and countless friends who will carry her
memory in their hearts forever.
Claire lived a full and generous life, always giving more than she received, and doing so with
grace, humor, and an open heart. She will be dearly missed and forever cherished.
A viewing will be held from 10:45 to 11:45 a.m. on Thursday, May 8, at the Community of the
Good Shepherd Catholic Church, 8815 E Kemper Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45249. A funeral Mass
will follow at noon.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Claire's memory may be made to the Sjögren's Foundation
(https://sjogrens.org). Online condolences may be made at www.strawserfuneralhome.com
Arrangements are under the professional direction of Strawser Funeral Home & Cremation Service.