Claire Marie Lawlor, 72, of Salem NH passed away unexpectedly on May 8, 2017 at Holy Family Hospital in Methuen, MA surrounded by her loving family. 

Claire was born on December 16, 1944 in Lawrence MA, daughter of the late Josephine (McDermott) Lannan of Lawrence, MA.  Claire was a graduate of St. Patrick’s High School, Chandler School for Women, and New Hampshire College.

Claire’s career in development started at Merrimack College and spanned over several years, working at Bon Secours Hospital, Notre Dame Academy, Sisters of Notre Dame of New England, Fisher College, and St. Anne’s Home in Methuen.  Claire was a pioneer in the development of the Salem Rams Cheerleading Squad and coached for the first several years.

A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, Claire was a kind and generous individual who loved life and spending time with her family, friends, and her beloved grandchildren.  Claire and her husband enjoyed the winter months in Boca Raton, Florida, where she had several close friends from the Tierra Del Mar Community.  Claire enjoyed “Words With Friends” as her favorite pastime!

Claire is survived by her husband James of 51 years; her son Sean of Salem, NH; daughters Sheri, wife of Sean Linnehan of Douglas MA; Kathleen, wife of Christian Elsmore of Spring City, PA; her father Joseph Lannan of Boynton Beach, FL and his wife Grace; grandchildren, Austin, Brooke and Payton Linnehan, Erin and Jared Lawlor, and Libby, Alex and Christian Murphy Elsmore.  Brother John Lannan and wife Janice of Seabrook Beach, NH; sister in law Marie Lannan of Chelmsford: and several nieces and nephews survive her.  She was predeceased by her brother Joseph, William and Lawrence.  Claire leaves behind many, many friends who loved her very much.

Family and friends are invited to calling hours on Friday, May 12, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM in the chapel at the Goundrey & Dewhirst Funeral Home, 42 Main Street, Salem, NH 03079.  A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, May 13, 2017, at 11:00AM at St. Joseph’s Parish, 40 Main Street Salem, NH 03079.  Burial will be in Pine Grove Cemetery in Salem, NH. 

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that contributions be made in Claire’s memory to Boston Higashi School, Attention Development Office, 800 North Main Street, Randolph MA 02368. 

 To send an online condolence, please visit, www.goundreydewhirstfuneral.com.

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