Claire M. Tierney

MERIDEN - Claire M. Tierney, 95, of Meriden, passed away at her home on Monday, Sept. 22, 2014, surrounded by the love and comfort of her family after a brief illness. She was the widow of Raymond Tierney.

Claire was born Dec. 18, 1918, in New Haven, the daughter of the late Arthur and Mary (Doyle) Morenz and was one of six siblings. She graduated from Meriden High School and Laurel Business College. She worked as a secretary, married and gave birth to two children. She raised and supported her children, for many years as a sole parent, forgoing her own needs and encouraging their continued development. Claire was employed by the Southern New England Telephone Company, working as a telephone operator and later as a business representative until her retirement in 1975. Some of the girls under her supervision at work found her a compassionate listener, who truly cared about them. "She listened with her heart." She received much pleasure from her Siamese cats and found them good company but was happiest while spending time with her family and friends. Claire was truly joyful when holding babies and engaging in play with toddlers. She was a member of the Pioneers Club, the Meriden-Wallingford Council of Catholic Women and a parishioner of Saint Joseph's Church, followed by Holy Angels Catholic Church. Throughout the final weeks of physical decline and protracted death, there was much love bestowed upon Claire as well as care love and consideration extended to each other, a true testimony to Claire's character. There were frequent visits from family and others and light hearted, as well as prayerful gatherings around the bedside, in the comfort of her own home as she wished. Nieces: Diane Rochette, Brittany Rochette and Robin Cracco are to be commended for their heartfelt and tireless dedication to their aunt Claire. Daughter Claire's continued love and support from afar and in recent months here in Meriden; and son, Raymond's previous live in care, as well as recent daily caregivers Karen Miller, Vaneza Rosa and Cheryl D'Avignon are to be acknowledged.

Claire leaves her loving memories to be cherished by her daughter, Claire Marie Price and her husband, Peter Price, of Port Macquarie, N.S.W., Australia; her devoted son, Raymond Tierney; her two grandsons, Christopher and David Price; her loving sisters, Audrey Hollman, Rita Edson, Lorraine Waller and her husband, Donald; and her brother, Arthur Morenz Jr. She was predeceased by her brother, John Morenz Sr.; and step-daughters, Elizabeth Ann Murphy, Maryjoan Paluszewski and Patricia Sipples. Claire is survived by many nieces, nephews; and other extended family members.

Funeral services for Mrs. Tierney will be held on Saturday, Oct. 4, when a Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at Holy Angels Catholic Church, 585 Main St., S. Meriden, at 10 a.m. Those planning to attend are asked to meet directly at the church. Burial will follow in Sacred Heart Cemetery. There are no calling hours. Eastside Memorial, "A Casey Family Funeral Home & Tribute Center, 1987 E. Main St., Waterbury has been entrusted to assist with the funeral arrangements. For additional information or to leave an e-condolence for the family, kindly visit the funeral home website at

www.eastsidememorial.com