Claire Ruth Buckle

October 27, 2018
Claire Ruth Buckle

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Claire Ruth Buckle (Bethel), 75, Williamsburg, VA, died on October 27, 2018 after a short illness. Claire was born on September 2, 1943 in Richmond, VA to Leonard and Irma Bethel. She graduated from John Marshall High School in 1960 and the College of William & Mary with a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science in 1964.

She is survived by her husband of 55 years, David Buckle, her son, Christopher and his husband Michael Miller of Rancho Mirage, CA; her sister Carol Ball of Topeka, KS; her brother-in-law and sister-in-law Paul and Mary Buckle of Charlotte, NC; three nieces, a nephew and four cats. She was preceded in death by her parents and her son, Peter A. Buckle.

Claire was a legal secretary in private law firms in Williamsburg until her retirement. She was an active member of the Williamsburg Baptist Church for 58 years, constant in her support of the music program. She was a generous supporter of many charities as evidenced by her impressive collection of tote bags and wildlife calendars. She was a devoted volunteer at the non-profit FISH, Inc. She was an avid reader and lover of all animals, especially cats. She enjoyed autumn family vacations to Chincoteague island during bird migration season. She practiced progressive politics and a faith of profound inclusiveness.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, November 7, 2018 at Williamsburg Baptist Church at 1:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donation to the Fehr Fund at Williamsburg Baptist Church, FISH, Inc., or the Heritage Humane Society.


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  • November 07, 2018
    Dianna Y Bailey says:
    I was so sorry to hear of Claire's passing. She has been a wonderful friend the past year that I've known her, and I valued her friendship. I feel such a heartfelt loss. My deepest sympathy to her family. I'm sending many prayers.

  • November 07, 2018
    Beth Glover says:
    Chris, I am thinking of you and your family today as you have your mother's funeral service. I can only imagine your loss and grief. I remember the kindness of your mother and her strong sense of spirit. I have fond memories of her from when we were in high school. I wish you, your dad and husband comfort and peace during this time of loss. May God's love fill you with good memories and reassurance that even death cannot part us. Much love to you and your family old friend. Beth

  • November 09, 2018
    Aelise B. Green says:
    Dear Dave, Chris and Carol... time sometimes seems short. It was wonderful to know Claire from Chandler Junior High School and John Marshall High School in Richmond. Even though Claire went to William and Mary and I became an R.N., but we never lost a beat with each other over the years. She will be missed, but Claire and her family will always be in my heart.....Love always, Aelise