Clare Jean McCarthy

She is survived by her siblings: David, Lorraine, Lucille, Arthur, & Evelyn; children: David, Moira, & Craig; grandchildren: Claire, Cameron, & Aiden and great grandchildren: Hunter, Maverick & Lawrence.

Clare was born on October 22, 1932 in Cutknife Saskatchewan. That makes her a prairie girl. Tenacious and stubborn. She held to her roots as her life adventures took her coast to coast in Canada. A teacher by profession, gardener by hobby, a cat lover, and a loving wife & mother at heart.

In 1958, Clare married Joseph McCarthy, her husband of 54 years and together raised three children, David, Moira, and Craig. The family resided in Saskatchewan, Nova Scotia, PEI and eventually settled in Nanaimo in 1971. Clare and her husband Joseph finally retired on Gabriola Island in 1992 to join Joe’s brother Brian and his wife Del. Clare and Del met while teaching in Regina and have an unbreakable lifelong friendship.

Once on Gabriola, Clare took pride in her garden. She maintained a large beautiful garden and every square inch of her deck and property were full of flower pots and greenery. Clare enjoyed reading and loved talking to her cat Joey. She was also an active member of the church and community on Gabriola over the years including: Our Lady of Victory Mission, Gabriola Ecumenical Society, Beta Sigma Phi Sorority, volunteerism, TOPS, and the Rollo Seniors Centre.

Clare travelled extensively and for decades wintered in Mexico with Joe where she also participated in the local community and church. An avid crib player, Clare enjoyed the game intensely and would skunk the best of them – both family and friends.

Her heart was always on Gabriola so that is where her spirit will remain. She will be resting beside her husband, Joseph, who passed away in 2011, at the Gabriola Cemetery on South Road.

The family is deeply grateful to the staff at Lakeside Gardens and the Palliative Care team at NRGH for all the loving care provided.

Her Celebration of life will be held on Gabriola at a later date.

Donations in lieu of flowers can be made in her name to: The Rollo Seniors Centre, 685 North Rd. Gabriola.