It is with deep sadness we share the news that our dear Mum, Nana, GG, Claire, passed peacefully, on July 15th, 2026, at the age of 99, with her family close by.
Claire was born in Broughshane, County Antrim, Northern Ireland. Claire emigrated to Canada in 1956, with her husband, Rev Hugh Maurice Hunter, and their two daughters. The family located in Ontario – Oakwood initially, followed by several years in Mitchell, where their third daughter was born and then on to St Thomas. The family lived in different United church parishes, each rich with community and filled with many friends.
In 1972 the Hunter family relocated to Victoria BC to the First United Church congregation. The time in this community was packed with many travel adventures and filled with dear friends and families, many who remain to this day. After the amalgamation to First Metropolitan Church, Claire remained an active parishioner for many years.
Claire was always gracious, stylish and engaging, and interested in what you were doing. She was devoted to the family and friends in her life; she knew the stories of all! Her keen memory and oft-told tales brought together family and friends through their shared histories. She was known for her care, curiosity and connections with all whom she met. Claire was often relied on for her appraisal of the daily outfits and appreciating the contributions made by all. Her approach to life with optimism, a quick wit, and a mischievous twinkle, will be missed by all the many lives that she touched through her rich lifetime.
Claire is remembered with love by daughters Ruth, Rosemary and Alison, grandchildren Andrew (Lucy) and Moira as well as great grandchildren Hamish and Maeve. She was predeceased by her husband Hugh in 1999, after 52 years married, and dear son-in-law David, and brothers Norman and David Cunning.
The family would like to thank Dr Geoffery Luckhurst for his wonderful heartfelt care over the years and to the many dear staff at Sunrise Care Home where Claire spent the last 3 years of her life.
Rest in Peace Mum, your spirit shines in our memories.
A Celebration of Life will be held in the Sequoia Centre at McCall Gardens, 4665 Falaise Drive, Victoria BC on Monday, September 28th at 2:00pm.
in lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Alzheimer’s Society of BC in memory of Claire’s beloved husband Hugh Hunter.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
This obituary is the property of the “Hunter” family and may not be reproduced, distributed, or altered in any way without prior written consent.
18 Responses
Dear Ruth, Rosemary and Alison,
We were sorry to hear of Claire’s passing and send heartfelt condolences to you and your families. Hugh and Claire created a wonderful community at First United including our family. From the beginning of Hugh’s ministry at First United, Claire and Hugh were such good friends to my mother, Darleen Haynes. Hugh and Darleen worked together at First United Church, later First Metropolitan Church. Claire and Darleen continued their close friendship until recently when they both entered care. Claire was a kind and generous person who will be deeply missed. We are thinking of you today.
Our family was blessed in knowing Claire and Hugh. Our marriage by Hugh was so thoughtful and unique. We are thankful for their influence on our lives.
Mrs Hunter was truly one of a kind-smart, gracious, and a true class act with impeccable taste. She was the kind of grandmother our girls always wanted: loving, wise, and wonderfully special. We were so lucky to know and love her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered with great affection.
So sorry for your loss Rose, and sisters. I know how fond and proud you were of your mom. So lucky to have had her in your life for all those years. The obituary is a warm and wonderful tribute to a special woman.
I was a member of the choir at First United 1975-1979 and met and came to know Claire during this time.
A woman of substance dignity and grace.
Sylvia Constable
Calgary Alberta
Hand over heart, Rose and family. Thinking of you and the tender way you loved your mom. May you be held in the spirit of her love and eternally embraced by her essence. She will forever dwell in your heart.
Sending our sincere condolences to Claire’s family. Clare was our neighbour for many years. She was gracious, kind & had a warm heart. Farewell to Claire! God Bless. Jan & Andre Bard
DearRuth,Rosemary and Alison,
Heartfelt condolance to you for the immeasurable loss of you dear mum.
Your tribute to her describes her to a T!She was indeed unique,as were her letters which I loved!I am indebted to Betty for introducing us many years ago at Newgrove. God bless,Audrey