Claire A. McDonnell

Claire A. McDonnell, 89, passed away March 17, 2025. Born in Clinton Twp, PA, she was the daughter of Francis J. Mulraney and Dorothy (Flanagan) Mulraney. Claire attended Aldenville grammar school and was a 1953 graduate of Waymart High School. Claire was a loving mother and grandmother and a beautiful soul who would reach out as "Nana" to all. After completing nurses training at St Joseph's of Carbondale and receiving her RN cap; Claire married Francis W. McDonnell of Carbondale, PA and together they moved to New Jersey, settling in Old Bridge. She worked for many years with the Sayreville Medical Group and did private duty at St Peters Hospital in New Brunswick, NJ. She particularly enjoyed spending time with her family, friends, and attending Rutgers Football games.

Although Claire is gone, she will live in our hearts forever.

She is survived by her children, Timothy F. McDonnell (Clare), Kathleen Waidelich (Harry), and Patrick J. McDonnell (Dorothy Klikus); and 5 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren, Michael Waidelich (Megan and daughters Phoebe and Felicity), Tim Waidelich (Kate Fenimore), Dan Waidelich (Sarah Ellington and son Porter), Tim McDonnell, and Matthew McDonnell. She is also survived by three cousins, Marian Myers, Bob Morin and Carol Connolly; and many nieces and nephews.

Claire was preceded in death by her husband Francis W. McDonnell; son, Kevin R. McDonnell; and daughter, Maureen C. McDonnell; her parents Francis and Dorothy; and her siblings, Gerard, Jean, Margaret, and Eileen.

A Catholic Mass will be held on Saturday, March 29, 2025 at 10:00 AM in St Mary's RC Church, 242 Carbondale Road, Waymart, PA with Rev. Joseph Sitko and Deacon Edward Kelly officiating. Everyone attending is asked to go directly to the church.

Visitation will be on Saturday, March 29, 2025 from 9-10 AM in St. Mary's Church.

A private burial will be held at a later date in New Jersey.

The family deeply appreciates the care and compassion provided by Wayne Woodlands Manor in Waymart, PA during Claire's last two years. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in memory of Claire to St. Mary's RC Church, PO Box 160, Waymart, PA 18472, or a charity of your choice.

Arrangements are entrusted to Howell Family Funeral Home, Inc., Edward R. Howell, Funeral Director, 269 Belmont Street, Waymart, PA 18472. www.HowellFamilyFuneralHome.com