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Remembering Claire T. Sullivan, one of the Fanning Girls For 45 years, I was blessed to be Claire T. Fanning Sullivan’s son-in-law. I sometimes felt guilty about that …because my whole life I’d heard many comedians and friends joke about having terrible mother-in-laws. I …never… felt like that. I always felt accepted and loved whenever we were together. In fact, I felt like I had a second mother for the past 45 years. I loved Claire, and I called her mom. She tried to teach me to dance. In fact one of my warmest memories was watching Jerome Sullivan, my brother-in-law, as he and Claire danced at my son Ronnie’s wedding. It reminded me of the Fanning girls as they danced and acted up at my own wedding to Claire’s daughter, Pat. Those Fanning sisters could not only dance, they could harmonize beautifully. One of my warmest recent memories was at Claire’s 90th birthday celebration. There was Claire and sister Joanie side by side…and Joanie was singing to Claire “When Irish Eyes are Smiling.” Claire hummed along as best she could. One final Fanning Sisters harmony, simple, beautiful, simply beautiful. Way back in the day, Claire learned to paint, and one year… she surprised Pat and me with a painting she did for us. It was an Irish cottage, humble, warm, inviting. That was Claire, and that was her wish for Pat and for me…that we would one day have a home not just a house. That painting has hung in our living room for decades. She wished everyone a place of peace, health, happiness, faith and love. As her family expanded over the years, and grandchildren, nieces, nephews and great grandchildren began arriving, Claire was always there. Claire was always among the first to arrive at the maternity ward when grandchildren, nieces and nephews were born. Many of you were held gently, lovingly by Claire in your first hours of life. From that moment on, you were in her heart. Claire gave many of you your first bath. She held you after Baptism, First Communion, hugged you and shook your hands after Confirmation and Marriage. Claire loved talking on the telephone. Many of you know that is so true. If you lived around Quincy, Claire loved to just randomly pull her car into your driveway and visit you unannounced for a cup of tea and a batch of cookies. Claire loved family gatherings. Claire is feeling loved by your presence here. It is our turn to congratulate her on nearly 91 years of faith, hope and love. When someone you love passes, take what you admired most about that person, and make that trait… part… of who… you are. Be like Claire. Pick up the phone and talk with those you love. Be like Claire and drop in on those you love. Be like Claire, dance, sing, volunteer, make art, live your faith, and always put family first. Keep Claire in your hearts. She’s earned a special place in our hearts through her life of shared faith, shared hopes, love and charity.

On behalf of my husband and I, please accept our sincere sympathy in the loss of your dear mother. The lovely and heartfelt obituary caught my attention, and, as I read it, our old (and dear) school chum, Ron Adams and his wife, and three sons were mentioned. Sincere condolences to The entire Sullivan family. So sorry.

I will be remembering Claire & John at Mass today. She was a joy to know. She is truly risen!

My condolences to the Sullivan family , from the Mathieson family, this is the time to celebrate her life , and not be sadden by her passing

Dear Pastor Claire - We are just getting home from vacation and are learning this sad news. Please know we are thinking of you and your family, and we pray that you will find comfort in your own time. We love you - Joyce & Brian

I am so grateful that I got to know you Claire! You always had a story to tell and an infectious laugh that would fill the room with laughter! Enjoy the beauty and joy of heaven until I see you again! Love, Marcia (Lol)

How beautiful is that picture of your mom, Claire? My heart sends hugs and lots of support to you and your family as you travel this difficult road. Breathe deep and love truly! Brenda

On behalf of the Seegraber family I offfer our sincere condolences to your family for the loss of your beloved mother Claire. She was an amazing lady and will be greatly missed by all who knew her. Love, John