Claire Blanchard Black

Claire Blanchard Black, beloved wife, sister, and friend, departed this life to join her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ in Paradise on July 27, 2023, in Simpsonville, South Carolina, at the age of 74. Her final
week was spent at home attended by family and close friends. She was born on May 16, 1949, in
Kirksville, Missouri, to the late Dova Blanchard (nee Hoerrmann) and the late Jay Lyle Blanchard. Claire, also known as L. Claire Blanchard before marriage, was a woman of many talents and passions. She dedicated her life to teaching, particularly special needs students. Her enthusiasm and commitment
to her students were unmatched. “Claire believed in their abilities and worked tirelessly to provide them with opportunities for success. She was their guardian angel, and many of her students went on to achieve their own form of success, thanks to her unwavering support.” Throughout her career, her practical and inventive teaching methods made her a favorite among her
students. Claire's loved nothing more than a good "chin wag" with one of her girlfriends, especially if it could be
combined with a shopping excursion to Marshalls. Her fun-loving personality sparkled in these
interactions. She was quick with a witty observation or one of her whimsically comical nicknames. The Polish Pottery ladies were a favorite source of pleasant interaction and knowledge. She was ready
and willing to share her personal stories but also her sympathy, or her life wisdom to help someone. "She was funny, kind, and thoughtful. She celebrated and shared in the joys of life with others. She
overcame so much." Outside of her professional life, Claire had a wide range of hobbies and interests. She found joy in tole
painting, sewing, quilting, collecting Polish Pottery, and, more recently, discovered a knack for
mosaics. Her creativity extended to cooking and cake baking and decorating, where she delighted her
loved ones with her delicious creations. She liked to try new recipes that she had researched, and add
her own distinctive touches. Claire loved the excitement of traveling. She took a two-year teaching assignment as a civilian teacher
on US military bases in Germany because she wanted the opportunity to explore Europe. During school
holidays, she and one of her teaching buddies would range far and wide across the continent
discovering new cultural horizons as well as collecting many souvenirs along the way. Claire will be deeply missed by her loving spouse of 33 years, George Black, her sister, Sara Cool, her
brother-in-law, Tom Cool and their two sons, Grant and Marc. She was also cherished by sisters-in-law
Beverly Davis, and Suzanne Myers, as well as nieces, nephews, and many friends across the country. Her engagement and laughter will forever be remembered by her many cronies among the Polish
Pottery ladies and her Alpha Delta Pi sorority sisters. Last, but not least, there is a sad little Bombay
kitty named Riley who is sorely missing his Mom.

Claire's educational journey included Winter Park High School, followed by studies at Northeast
Missouri State University (now Truman State University), the University of South Florida, and the
University of Illinois. Her thirst for knowledge and dedication to her craft were evident in her teaching
career. Claire Black's vibrant spirit, commitment to others, and zest for life will forever be cherished by all
those who had the pleasure of knowing her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and kindness
that will continue to inspire us all.