Claire D. Kelley, 95
Dateline: Norton, MA
Claire D. Kelley passed away peacefully on Friday, November 4, 2022 at the age of 95. Claire was born in Acushnet, Massachusetts on February 10, 1927 to Albina (LeClaire) and Alfred Dupre. Claire was raised in New Bedford, Massachusetts and resided there for 26 years. On August 22, 1953, Claire married the love of her life, and former New Bedford High School classmate, Frederick E. Kelley, Jr.
They made their home in Norton, Massachusetts, where they raised their family and became involved with many organizations in the town. Throughout her life, Claire was employed by Shawmut Bank, North Easton Savings Bank and Fernandes Supermarket, as secretary to Joseph Fernandes.
A devout Catholic, Claire was a parishioner of Saint Mary’s Catholic Church in Norton, where she was a eucharistic minister and CCD teacher. In addition, Claire was the treasurer of the Norton Land Preservation Society, and a member of the Norton Historical Society and League of Women Voters, where she worked at the polls during elections.
Claire was a talented artist and enjoyed painting, knitting and reading. She could often be found searching through the book stacks at the Norton Public Library. An outstanding cook, her cuisine was appreciated by family and friends throughout the years. By far, Claire’s greatest joy in life was her family.
She was a cherished daughter, sister, wife and mother. Claire is predeceased by her parents, a sister Doris (Dupre) Rivard, and a son-in-law, Mark P. Letourneau. She leaves behind her beloved husband and soulmate of 69 years “Freddie”, her loving daughter Marianne C. Kelley and son-in-law Philip M. Giordano of Westwood, and daughter Michele K. Letourneau of Fairhaven. Claire was the proud and adoring grandmother to Matthew P. Giordano, Kathryn K. Giordano, Angela C. Giordano and Michael M. Giordano, all of Westwood. Throughout her 95 years, Claire touched many lives and made countless friends along her life’s journey. Her loss will be deeply felt by her friends and family.
Relatives and friends are cordially invited to attend visiting hours on Friday, November 11th from 4:00-8:00 P.M. at the Norton Memorial Funeral Home, 19 Clapp Street (Off Route 140, Taunton Avenue) Norton.
Her Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, November 12th at 11:00 A.M. in Saint Mary’s Catholic Church, 1 Power Street, Norton. Burial will be held private.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Claire’s name to St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 1 Power Street, Norton, MA 02766
To send her family a message of condolence, please visit www.nortonmemorial.com