Claire E Hanley

Born on December 16, 1938, to Dr. Arkad K. and Irene E. Biczak, Claire grew up with a deep sense of kindness, resilience, and devotion to the people she loved. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Thomas R. Hanley, her parents, and her brother, Rev. Arkad K. Biczak. She carried each of them in her heart throughout her life.

Claire is survived by her children: Thomas R. Hanley, Jr. (Donna), Colleen Mary Huelskamp (Ken), Maureen Claire Dalbec (Bill), Timothy Patrick Hanley (Patty), and Charlene Ellen Thorne (Derek); her grandchildren: Amanda, Ryan, and Meghan Hanley; Trey Huelskamp (Noelle McHugh), Sean Huelskamp (Taylor), Meghan Claire and Ryan Thomas Dalbec, Margaret and Eleanor Hanley, and Reagan Thorne; and her siblings: Marylin Beiner, Loretta Hanley, Irene Gogal, Regina Conforth, Patricia Byrne, and Joseph Biczak.

Claire grew up in Northern New Jersey with her seven brothers and sisters. An adventurous child, she held fond memories of family meals and vacations and cherished the lifelong friendships, lessons, and bonds they shared.

Claire graduated from Caldwell College with a degree in Biology and taught at the high school level until marrying her husband, Tom, in 1961. Together they raised their five children in Clifton, New Jersey, before relocating to Falls Church, Virginia, in 1972. A loving and supportive mother, her children were always her pride and joy.

As her children grew, Claire returned to teaching, first working in the Pre-K program at Temple Rodef Shalom and later founding and directing the Pre-K program at St. John the Beloved Catholic School in McLean. She served there for 25 years before retiring. Claire also taught CCD at both St. James Catholic School and St. John’s for more than 50 years. She was an active member of the Women’s Council of St. John’s and a dedicated volunteer within her church and the greater McLean community. She was widely known for her unwavering faith, generosity, and kindness.

Claire was the best grandmother ever. She adored all babies, especially her grandchildren, and was always eager to babysit, provide a favorite snack, read a story, swim with them in her pool, or cheer them on at sporting events.

She maintained lifelong friendships with her college friends, with whom she traveled annually for many years, visiting destinations such as Vatican City, Italy, Switzerland, and many places throughout the United States. Claire was a devoted, lifelong member of the Third Order of St. Dominic and enjoyed many hobbies, including gardening, painting, sewing, and needlework.

Her favorite memories were family vacations and holiday gatherings with her children and grandchildren. She spent countless hours lovingly preparing her home and meals for these occasions, which were treasured by all.

Claire poured her love into her family, friendships, and community, leaving a legacy of compassion that will continue to ripple outward. Her life was a testament to love, strength, faith, and quiet grace. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered. Her warm smile will live on in the hearts of all who knew her as she enters eternal life in a state of grace.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the Kensington Falls Church family for the love and compassionate care provided to Claire in her final years.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at St. James Catholic Church in Falls Church, Virginia. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Catholic Charities, Diocese of Arlington.