Raymond T. Chuley (1935 – 2025)

Claire H. Leber, 94, Medusa, NY.

Beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, cousin and friend passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, Feb. 18, 2023, reunited with loved ones and dear friends.

“What a glorious day that will be — When my Jesus I shall see — When I look upon His face — The One who saved me by His grace — When He takes me by the hand and leads me through the Promised Land.”

Claire was born on July 9, 1928, to the late Einar and Eveleen (Bergwall) Olson on the family farm where she grew up and lived most of her life. A 1945 graduate of Greenville Central School, she served as class president and valedictorian.

In addition to being a farm wife and homemaker, she was employed by Hannay Reels as their first secretary. She would later work for the Albany County Soil and Water Conservation District. In 1993, she became a cherished teacher and co-worker at Grapeville Christian School. After 21 years at the school, she retired at the age of 88.

Claire was a devoted member of Grapeville Baptist Church, where she served as a Sunday School teacher and pianist. She was a member of the Ladies Calvary Missionary Fellowship and served as president. One of the things she enjoyed most was hosting missionaries in her home, leading to many lifelong friendships.

Claire was a dedicated member of the Rensselaerville Historical Society, Medusa Cemetery Association, Town of Rensselaerville Planning Board and served as an Albany County election inspector for many years.

Claire is survived by her son, William (Glenda), and daughter, Anne (John-deceased). “Grannie” to her beloved grandsons Stephen (Lorraine), Matthew, Scott, Jonathan, and Dean (Savanah); great-granddaughters Emily, Alexa, Peyton Claire, and Madison. She is also survived by several dearly loved nieces, nephews and cousins.

Claire was predeceased by her husband of nearly 40 years, Hubert; son, Stephen; brother, Robert; sisters, June and Irene; honorary sister, Mary Brunot; sister-in-law, Alice Brand; niece, Marsha Cance; nephews David and John Milburn, and Col. Gary Brand, USAF (Ret.).

Calling hours will be Friday, March 3, from 4-8 p.m. at A.J. Cunningham Funeral Home, 4898 State Route 81, Greenville. Funeral services will be held at Grapeville Baptist Church, 2416 County Route 26, Climax, on Saturday, March 4, at 11:30 a.m. Burial will be in Medusa Cemetery in the spring.

The family would like to thank the many individuals who helped provide heartfelt care to Claire over the past several years, especially Jennifer Ray and Tina Stannard; and including the staff and volunteers of The Community Hospice.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Claire’s memory can be made to the Millersville Fellowship of Christian Athletes, c/o Dan DeVinney, 314 N. George Street, Millersville, PA 17551, or The Community Hospice Foundation, 310 South Manning Boulevard, Albany, NY 12208.  Condolence page is available at ajcunninghamfh.com.