Claire Theresa Deery, age 95, passed away peacefully in her home in Cornwall on Friday, July 30, 2021, surrounded by her loving family. She was the devoted daughter of the late Bernard and Rose (Mc Laughlin) Cullen. She was born and raised in Edgewater Park, Bronx, New York. She attended Aquinas High School and Grace Institute Business School. She met Edward Deery in 1948 and they were married at St. Helena’s Church, Bronx, NY, on September 2nd, 1950. She raised her family in New City, NY and was an active member of the St. Augustine’s Parish. During her early career she was a personal assistant to research engineers at the United States Atomic Energy Commission. Later in her career she worked as a bookkeeper for Town of Clarkstown, Town Clerks office.
Her strength was in her Catholic faith and devotion to the Blessed Mother. Together with her husband, Claire was actively involved in St. Augustine’s Church and foundation for the We the Parish program in the 1970’s. Claire was a passionate member of the Marriage Encounter program for many years and met so many close friends along the way. Claire was a competent and constant voice for living a life of loving kindness.
After retiring, Claire and Ed spent time in their homes in Florida and the Jersey Shore as well as time with family in Redondo Beach Ca. Claire finally settled in Cornwall, NY where she enjoyed time with friends playing cards and bingo.
Claire is survived by her children Edward Deery and his wife Sandy Deery of Redondo Beach, CA, John Deery of Congers, NY, Colleen Deery of Ramsey, NJ. Beloved Nanny of Brian Deery of Torrance, CA, Victoria Lascari and partner Nicholas Lima of West Milford, NJ and recently became a great grandmother when little Joseph was born. Claire was predeceased by her loving husband Edward Deery, her son Bernard, her daughter Rose Mary, and her brother, Br. Kieran Cullen SA.
Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, August 4th at Michael J. Higgins Funeral Home, 321 South Main St., New City, N.Y. from 2PM-4PM and 7PM-9PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Thursday at 10AM at St. Augustine’s Church, 140 Maple Ave., New City, NY, followed by interment in St. Anthony Cemetery, 36 West Nyack Rd, Nanuet, NY.
Donations in her honor may be made to Hospice of Orange & Sullivan County, 800 Stony Brook Ct, Newburgh, NY 12550 or at www.hospiceoforange.com
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.MJHigginsNewCity.com for the Deery family.
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