Claira Anderson

Claira M. Anderson, of Melrose passed away Tuesday, June 13, 2023 surrounded by her loving family. She was our cherished matriarch and will be sorely missed by all. Claira was the loving mother of Gail Girard of Franklin, NH, Linda Malonson of Saugus, MA. and David Anderson of Melrose, MA. She was the beloved grandmother to four grandchildren Lori Giard, Amy Girard, Melissa Viele and Jennifer Malonson; six great grandchildren C.J. Gilmore, Shaun Viele, Alyssa Messina, Anthony Messina, Dante Vazquez and Nico Vasquez and one great-great grandchild Kanan Viele.
Claira was born in Grand Falls, New Brunswick, Canada on August 21, 1930, daughter of the late Angus and Elizabeth (Levesque) Barriault. Years later, she met her soon- to -be husband, Joseph Anderson of Caribou, ME. After an exciting first date at the State of Maine Fair, they were destined to be together and eventually married on August 23, 1951. Together, they relocated to the New England area to raise their family.
Claira worked in the health care field for many years. Nursing and caring for others were her passions in life. She was as tirelessly dedicated to the care of her patients; as she was the meticulous care of her family.
Claira was known for her warm and giving heart. She was the one who all family members would turn to for non- judgmental support and encouragement. When family/friends were ill; she would call daily to check on him/her. Showing love and support through subtle actions was the hallmark of who Claira was. She was first with a big hug and praise for achievements of loved ones. She provided kind, gentle, loving words at precisely the right moment. Claira was also known for her amusingly mischievous side. She would drop a funny quip with exceptional timing.
There were many activities that brought Claira great joy. Reading and viewing spiritual television, cooking and gardening. She spent hours planting and tending to her roses, lilacs, window boxes and hanging plants. She still found time in the day to provide a delicious meal. Some of the tastiest meals Claira made were her bountiful holiday dinners. The menu was endless and delectable. Claira's famous lasagna, her traditional Sabbath meal of baked beans and potato salad were always a big hit. Big Franks optional.
Claira was at her core a very spiritual person. She held her Lord and Savior, her church, and her family at the forefront of what was important and meaningful in her life. She spent countless hours reading her Bible, checking on friends, family, church members to show her love.
Claira always had an open-door policy in her home and all were welcome. She had a special knack for making each person feel as though they were her most important guest.
Indeed, Claira will be missed by all who knew her, loved her, and had the wonderful honor of spending time with her.

A Celebration of Claira's life will be held at the Stoneham Memorial Seventh Day Adventist Church on Sunday, June 25th @ 1:00 pm. 29 Maple St. Stoneham, MA