Clare Marie McQuaid

In loving memory of Clare Marie (Phelan) McQuaid, who peacefully departed from this world at the age of 71, surrounded by her family, on March 30, 2024 on Barry Court in Losier Hall Shannex nursing home.

Clare was born on Feb. 28, 1953, and grew up on the family farm in the serene countryside of Byrne Rd in rural Prince Edward Island. There she spent her childhood, cultivating a deep connection to nature and a strong work ethic from a young age.

Clare, a trailblazer from the start, dared to defy the norms in her village of Morell PEI when she was the first girl to wear pants to school. She faced a storm of disapproval from school administrators, yet she would prove the more stubborn and her blue jeans would reappear again and again.

In her adulthood, Clare embarked on a new chapter in Miramichi, New Brunswick, where she lovingly raised a family alongside James, her beloved husband of almost 50 years. She poured her heart and soul into nurturing her three children, instilling in them values of compassion, resilience, and integrity.

Clare is survived by her husband, James McQuaid; her children Angela (Kyle) McQuaid Murphy, Melissa (Keith) McQuaid, and Robert (Jasmine) McQuaid; her siblings Reginald (Stella) Phelan, Johnny Phelan, and Paulette (Donnie) Kelly. Clare was also a devoted grandmother to her seven grandchildren: Tyler, Aidan, and Jenna Murphy; Henry and Daphne Jamieson; and Sofia and Rosalie McQuaid.

She was predeceased by her parents Harold and Marguerite (Kenny) Phelan, as well as her sister Beverly (George) Rodgers.

At Clare’s request, there will be no visitation. A graveside service will be held at a later date.

Her family would like to thank the Staff of Barry Court in Losier Hall Nursing Home for their care and kindness during her final years as she faced the challenges of Alzheimer’s. “Though her memory may have faded, her love left an indelible mark on all who knew her.”

Funeral arrangements are in the care of Northumberland Funeral Home & Crematorium, 102 Pleasant St, telephone (506) 622-7741. Where your loved one never leaves our care.