Claire was an amazing, intelligent, steadfast, and strong woman who loved fiercely and was well loved by many. Born July 15, 1952 in Saint Joachim in Quebec, Canada to Gilbert and Francoise Pépin, she moved to the United States to start a family with Scott McCubrey in 1974. A nurse, mother, volunteer, and active community member, Claire was always busy and involved with those around her. After moving to the United States and learning English, she even earned her degree in Sociology from the University of Southern Maine and walked with her son in graduation.
She loved gardening, going for rides, shopping, traveling, her grandchildren, bunco with friends, soup & salad, Diet Coke, French fries, cooking, and camping. Her daughter, Julie, will miss her holiday Jello Salad- which Claire always made just for her. Her son, Raymond, will miss her direct way of speaking, her bold spirit, and the life reflections they shared together. If anyone ever needed help, she was there. She made sure to stay involved with family even if far away, including her son’s family in Utah with daily and weekly calls, and her family in Quebec. Her grandchildren grew up with her always being there and many sleep overs, mini vacations to New Hampshire, and camping trips together.
She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, and many close friends and family including her father and mother, Gilbert and Francoise Pépin, and sister Doris Pépin.
She is survived by her children: Julie York and Raymond McCubrey and their respective spouses Ryan York and Amanda McCubrey. She is survived by her grandchildren: Griffin York and Diana York. In Quebec, she is survived by many siblings including Monique Pépin, husband Alex Mékédhoum, children Johanne, Claire, and Yves. Conrad Pépin, partner Line, and son Alexandre. Guy Pépin. Gisèle Pépin, divorced, and children Patrick and Pascal. Alain Pépin, wife Lucie Racine, children Mathieu and Audrey. André Pépin, partner Guylaine Laurent. Yannick Pépin. Robert Pepin, wife Monelle Pepin, their son Nicolas Pépin, wife Stéphanie Massouty, children Raphaël and Marie-Soleil and their daughter Stéphanie Pépin, husband Tony Fitzback, children Nathan and Océanne.
Claire leaves behind cherished connections with many people. Her strong will, friendliness, and energy will be missed but will live on in her loved ones and grandchildren.
Family and friends are invited to a time of visitation on Saturday August 22, 2026, from 1-3 PM at Jones, Rich & Barnes Funeral Home, 199 Woodford St, Portland, ME 04103. There will be a brief memorial service at 3PM, followed by a gathering and reception until 6PM.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Maine Cancer Foundation, 170 US Rte 1, Suite 250 Falmouth, ME 04105 https://mainecancer.org/.
