Claire Whitney

Claire Whitney of Schenectady, NY, (99) and Jensen Beach Florida, passed away peacefully at The Eddy Village Green in Cohoes, NY. Born in Malone, NY, daughter of Norman Bessette and Elizabeth Mannix.

Claire graduated from Franklin Academy in Malone and Cortland State Teachers College. Claire met her husband Ralph while in college and together they graduated with teaching degrees. Claire was married to her husband Ralph for 66 years and was blessed with four children, Joy and husband Tom, Brian and Tony, Matthew and Cathy, and the late Mark Whitney. Claire had six grandchildren, eight great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild!

Claire had a long history in volunteering for literacy and remedial reading programs. She was active as a volunteer in many soup kitchens and food pantries; garden clubs and delivering Meals on Wheels for many years. Claire was passionate in her belief that everyone should have access to good libraries and all they can offer.

Claire loved people and always generously gave her gifts and talents to encourage and enrich those that had the pleasure of knowing her.

A memorial mass for Claire will be held on August 30, 2025 at 11 AM at Our Lady Queen of Peace in Schenectady. Burial will take place on a later date.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Claire’s memory can be made to Community Maternity Services.  

https://www.ccrcda.org/agencies-and-programs/community-maternity-services/