Claire Marie Hughes

On April 25, 2017, Claire Marie Hughes, née Schumacher, entered eternal life surrounded by her loving family. She was born in the copper mining city of Butte, Montana on November 30, 1931, to Irene Sauvé Schumacher and Albert Schumacher, and was the oldest of six children.

A San Diego resident since 1954, Claire attended Seattle University, graduating in 1953 with a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Home Economics. She moved to Ocean Beach and in August 1954, she met the love of her life, Leroy (Roy) Hughes when they both worked at the Naval Electronics Laboratory in Point Loma. Roy and Claire were married in Butte on December 28, 1954. They had four energetic boys who kept them on the move.

Claire loved people. Her husband and sons were amazed at her ease in building and nurturing friendships. It is said she could get in an elevator on the ground floor of a building, and have three new lifelong friends by the time the elevator reached the 10th floor. She was an effective and empathetic listener, and could find something positive in nearly every situation or encounter. Claire applied this love of people, along with her attention to detail to directing Quality Assurance efforts for FedMart Corporation.

Claire’s Roman Catholic faith was a cornerstone of her life. She had a very personal relationship with God and attended daily mass with Roy for many years. Along with Roy, Claire was tireless in efforts in improving the spiritual as well as physical and emotional lives of people, not only locally but also those in need around the world, applying her time, talents and treasure. Her devotions included International Relief Teams, Kairos prison ministry, Whispering Winds Catholic Camp and Conference Center, Marriage Encounter, Cursillos in Christianity, Saint Patrick’s Parish in North Park, and Immaculata Parish on the campus of the University of San Diego. As part of the literacy program at Longfellow Elementary School, she read for students, instilling them with her passion for literature and a lifelong pursuit of learning.

Claire loved spending time with her friends, her immediate family and her large extended family. She was a great organizer and enjoyed hosting many gatherings in her home. She and Roy were avid sailors with Mission Bay Yacht Club and Southwestern Yacht Club. She enjoyed many activities, including dancing, hiking and family camping trips. When Roy retired in 1989, Claire and Roy traveled to many parts of the world.

Claire is survived by Roy, her husband of 62 years, sons Michael (Lou Ann) of Pasco, WA, Paul (Irene) of San Diego, Kevin (Pisey) of Colorado Springs, CO, and Daniel (Angela) of Fairbanks, AK, grandson Cameron, and granddaughters Audrey and Jasmine. Also, she is survived by brothers Thomas, James, and Albert, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, brother Jack, and sister Martha.

A funeral mass has been scheduled at the Immaculata, 5998 Alcala Park, San Diego, CA 92110, at 11:00 AM on May 4. A viewing and a rosary in the same location have been scheduled for 5:30 PM and 7:00 PM, respectively, on Wednesday May 3. In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family suggests a donation to International Relief Teams (www.irteams.org).

Arrangements under the direction of Goodbody Mortuary, San Diego, CA.