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
I am saddened to hear of her passing.
She was a lovely, gracious woman. I have such fond memories of her, and Hugh, at First United
Sean Steele
Claire was always so diminutive and delightful looking in all of Alison’s posts. I truly felt the love they had for each other from these pics and posts. I feel heartened by women like you, Alison, who have had the kind of love you shared with your Mumma as I know that special bond will last forever ♥️♥️♥️
Claire was a dear friend and neighbour. She aways had a positive attitude. She amazed us with her ability to go swimming at Willows Beach every summer for many years. And the water was frightfully cold too. We miss her presence in the neighbourhood, and will always be remember as a kind soul.
We were blessed to have Claire as our dear neighbour and friend in Oak Bay for many years. Her wisdom, wit and caring interest in our family enriched our lives. So many warm memories will remain with us forever. Sending love and condolences to the family.
ALL MY SYMPATHY, ALISON . . . I KNOW HOW YOU FELT ABOUT YOUR MOTHER . . . WHILE LOSING MY OWN MOM WAS ABOUT THE WORST THING THAT EVER HAPPENED TO ME. I SEND MY BEST TO YOU. XOX – DON-E.-
I am so sorry to hear that Claire has passed. I have fond memories of her and the family when they lived next to my nana across from the United Church in St. Thomas. Quite an amazing milestone celebrating 99 years. My condolences to the family.
I never had the pleasure of meeting my dear friend Alison’s sweet Mum but I know when the sun and the stars shine, all that knew Claire will feel her bright shine. Forever loved and remembered. Peace and love to all her family and friends.
It was my deep privilege and pleasure to get to know Mrs. Claire Hunter late in her long life as a patient and as a unique character.She demonstrated that one can be fiercely kind-hearted… For she was all of that – and so much more.
What a lovely tribute to your dear Mum. Love to you and your family Alison. Xo
Claire was a one-off. My pal and in another life, my girlfriend. I will sorely miss our birthday meetings and garden appreciation and watching her devour a scone or some chocolate with glee. I was very fortunate indeed to call her my friend and I am richer for it.
See you in the garden.