Claire E. Sutton

Died September 11, 2008. Claire Sutton, 87, of Elmira died in her sleep, in her own bed, in her own apartment, having lived as independently as possible. Claire, the daughter of George and Florence Ettenberger, was born June 13, 1921 in Elmira. Claire graduated from Sts. Peter and Paul Parochial School in 1935 and Elmira Free Academy in 1939. After attending Elmira College for two years, she graduated from Scudder Business School, 5th Avenue, New York City. After raising 5 children, Claire re-enrolled at Elmira College and received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in June, 1991. She was then re-associated with her original Class of ‘43. Claire was married to Philip M. Sutton, son of Raymond and Lulu Sutton, on June 15, 1946 in St. John the Baptist Church, Elmira, N.Y. Philip and Claire are survived by four children: Anne (Leonard) Dezelski, Thomas (Mala) Sutton, George (Debbie) Sutton, and CSM Theodore (Evi) Sutton; 12 grandchildren: Christopher Sutton; Daniel (Maria), Robert (Jenny), and David Sutton; and Mary, John, Francis, Joseph, Peter (Teresa), Theresa, Simon, and Catherine Dezelski; 2 great-grandchildren: Camyla and Sebastian Sutton.  Claire was preceded in death by her brother, Ralph Ettenberger (1991); her husband, Philip (1996); and her son, Gregory (1997).

In addition to her roles as wife and mother, Claire was an exceedingly competent secretary and a most gifted seamstress. Claire retired from Elmira Savings Bank in 1999. Claire continued to sew until the day she died. At her sewing machine, Claire created works of art: clothing, quilts, banners, Raggedy Ann & Andy dolls, aprons... Her dolls were real and beautiful and totally lovable. Claire lived an orderly life. And, she was truly a classy lady. May she rest in peace.

Friends are invited to McInerny Funeral Home, corner of Water and Walnut Sts., on Sunday, September 14, 2008 from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Monday, September 15, 2008 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.  The rosary will be recited on Sunday afternoon at 4:00 p.m. and on Monday evening at 7:00 p.m.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, September 16, 2008 at 9:30 a.m. at St. Mary Our Mother Church, Horseheads. Graveside blessing will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery. 

Please remember Claire and her family in your prayers.

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