It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our mother, Claire White-Spurgeon, 91, of Natick on May 26, 2025 at the Newton Wellesley Hospital surrounded by her loving family.
Born in New Bedford on February 19, 1934, she was the daughter of Valmore and Magdelaine (Pike) Fredette and the wife of the late James L. Spurgeon.
The oldest of six, Claire grew up in South Boston, married and moved to Natick in 1962 where she raised her family. As a secretary, she provided support for the Department of Executive Education at Babson College throughout the 1990's and moved onto provide administrative support at RW Holmes in Natick where she retired in 2004.
"Nanny White" loved being surrounded by family, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She always looked forward to the holidays where she would cook up a huge feast for family and friends. All were always welcomed to her home.
Those who knew Claire knew she loved to sing. It didn’t take much to coax her into belting out a song or two at any moment. In her early childhood days she could be heard singing on a weekly children’s hour radio program. Claire also had a love for dancing. Never a wedding would pass without Claire dancing the night away, you just couldn’t get her off the dance floor. Her love for sewing provided all kinds of quilts, home decor and children’s clothing which she would give to family and friends.
A devout Catholic and communicant of St. Mary’s Church in Uxbridge, she continuously offered prayers for those in need. She always had time to listen to anyone’s problems and was always more than willing to help out in any way she could. Our mother will be deeply missed by all.
She is survived by her children - Lynda Barry and her husband Jack of Moultonborough NH, John White and his wife Bobbie-Jo of Holbrook MA, the late James White of Uxbridge MA, Jacqui Olsen and her husband Kenneth of Medway MA, Paul White and his partner Laura of Framingham MA, and Jean Carpenter and her husband Bill of Vero Beach, FL. Nanny White is also survived by 13 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.
A private funeral service will be held at the convenience of the family.
Donations may be made in Claire's name to the Catholic Relief Services or St Vincent de Paul Society.