Claire L. Kelley

St. Regis Falls – Mrs. Claire L. Kelley, 82, passed away Friday, April 10, 2015 at CVPH in Plattsburgh. Arrangements are entrusted to Hammill Funeral Home in St. Regis Falls. Claire was born on November 30, 1932, daughter of the late Lloyd and Bertha (Machabee) Hunkins. Sadly, her mother died at a young age and she was raised by her grandparents, Fred and Carrie Hunkins. She graduated Valedictorian of the Class of 1951 from St. Regis Falls High School. On September 4, 1953, she married Clyde B. Kelley at Trinity United Methodist Church in St. Regis Falls, sharing a devoted union of 48 years. Clyde passed away on September 6, 2001. She started her career at St. Regis Falls Central School as a secretary, and then went into the banking industry. She worked in St. Regis Falls for Ogdensburg Bank and Trust, Oneida National Bank and then Fleet Bank. Starting as a teller, Claire earned a position as Bank Manager. Her customers knew her as a person with an outgoing personality who had a special way with people. She retired in July 1994. In her spare time; besides raising a family, she was a member of the Order of Eastern Star and a board member for the St. Regis Falls Adult Center. Claire’s spirituality directed her life and she was one that the fellow church members could go to for Bible clarity. She would be asked each year for the names of the 3 Wise Men. Her love of her church, Trinity United Methodist Church, was evident in her support of the church services and functions, and was always available to offer her hospitality and time. She was an avid NY Yankee’s and Syracuse fan. She leaves a legacy of love, respect and compassion for her children. Claire is survived by two sons; Chris of Hamburg and Craig and Heather of St. Regis Falls. Always close to her heart is the memory of her son, Scott, who died in 1956 and her husband, Clyde. She was blessed with wonderful friends whom she cherished. Visitation will be held Tuesday from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 pm at the Hammill Funeral Home in St. Regis Falls. Claire’s Funeral Service and Celebration of Life will be Wednesday at 1 pm at Trinity United Methodist Church in St. Regis Falls. Burial will be in Forest Cemetery. Those wishing to express an act of kindness in Claire’s memory, please consider donations to Trinity United Methodist Church. Memories and condolences can be shared at www.hammillfh.com.