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Celebrating the life of

Claire Peterson Barsic

March 23, 1964 - December 27, 2019

Claire Peterson Barsic

Claire Peterson Barsic passed away on December 27, 2019 after a long battle with Multiple System Atrophy.

Claire was born on March 23, 1964 in New York City (Queens) to Edward and Helen Peterson.  The Peterson family moved to Savannah in 1968 where Claire would spend the majority of her life.  Claire graduated from Nativity of Our Lord School in 1978, Saint Vincent’s Academy in 1982 and then received a BFA in video from the Savannah College of Art and Design in 1986.  After working for Comcast, WTOC and the US Army, Claire returned to college for another bachelor’s degree, this time in psychology, from Armstrong State University in 1998. Claire married Michael Barsic on October 24, 1998 and they had one daughter, Elizabeth (Betty).

Claire had a life-long love of the arts.  She acted in numerous stage plays from the 1980s through the early 2000s.  Some favorites of Claire’s included “Noises Off” and “The Last of the Red-Hot Lover’s” which she performed twice in the early 1990s and again in 1997.  In a review, the Savannah Morning News called her “the delightful Claire Peterson.” Claire also loved to sing. When she was at SCAD, she was lead singer in a band called “A Disturbed Jennifer,” described by SMN as “Savannah’s answer to the posey-and-psychedelics school of undergraduate garage rock.”  She went on to sing more sedate music in choirs at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, Blessed Sacrament, and Saint Peter the Apostle. Claire also loved to help others, especially in acting and public speaking. She coached many students throughout her life. And somehow got a junior high drama club to put on a wonderful performance of “The Actor’s Nightmare.”

Claire was a devoted daughter, wife and mother.  After being a stay-at-home mom, she was a caregiver to her parents for many years.  After her parents passed, she saw her daughter, Betty, though cancer. Two years after that, Claire was stricken with a neurological disease called Multiple System Atrophy.

Claire was preceded in death by her brother, Edward, and her parents, Edward and Helen.  She is survived by her husband, Michael, her daughter, Betty, her sisters Elaine Henn and Eileen (John) Edgcomb, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be at Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Islands Chapel from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 2, 2020 with a Rosary at 6:30 p.m.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, January 3, 2020.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to St. Vincent's Academy, 207 E. Liberty Street, Savannah, GA 31410 or to the Mayo Clinic at Department of Development, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St. SW, Rochester, MN 55905.

 

 

 

SHARE YOUR CONDOLENCES

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While I did not know Clair, I feel thru the short time I have been on her Celebration page, that I have gotten to know her thru her pictures and everyone's comments. From her pictures, I see a woman full of life, enjoying life and those around her. From the stories, comments, etc. I read of the love that she shared with her friends and family. I am so sorry for the passing of Clair, I am sure she is sorely missed already. Till you all meet again..

- barbara perlman, HAVRE DE GRACE, MARYLAND

Mike and Betty, You are in our thoughts and prayers as you face this terrible loss. God Bless your dear wife and Mother...she was a fighter; she's now singing again in the heavenly choir! God Bless. Mike and Bernadette

- Bernadette and Mike Winters, Savannah, GA

God blessed me with my path crossing Claire's path. I am only able to recall the special, sweet,funny moments we shared,for awhile, be it at church singing "in the seats closest to heaven",sharing in the run of a play or just silly thoughts. My sincerest sympathies to Mike,Betty,family and those of us who love Claire.

- Mary M. Kessler, Lawrenceville, Ga.

Mike and Betty, we are sadden to hear of Claire's passing. She was so welcoming to us when we lived in Savannah, as was your whole family, and I loved to hear her stories of her antics while growing up there. She was a shining light who will keep on burning through the memories we all have of her.

- The Lacombe Family , Hilton Head, SC

My deepest sympathy to you, Mike and Betty. Claire was a kind and generous person.When I visited Savannah over the years, she would show me all the beautiful squares, hotels, monuments, and favorite stores of her beautiful Savannah. She was a most wonderful daughter-in-law and I will miss her very much. God bless you all. Mom and Grandma

- Judy Barsic, Michigan City, Indiana

My deepest condolences to Mike and Betty, and to Claire’s family. May Claire’s beautiful light shine on. Leah Herrin, Steve and Zoë Metz

- Leah Herrin, Nahunta , GA

Mike, Betty and Family, I know you will hold all of those family memories in your hearts forever! I will hold the memories of our love and shared stories and photos of peacocks and will miss the surprise ways Claire would send them to me! You are in my prayers, dear family. Know that we pray for peace and comfort, especially for you, Mike and Betty. Sr. M. Lillian Quadrella, RSM

- Sr. M. Lillian Quadrella, RSM, Savannah, , Ga

Dear Mike and Betty, my deepest sympathy for your loss. I didn't know Claire as well as my husband did. He often spoke about the two young ladies (Claire and Jill) that worked for him at his store. He always sent birthday cards to each one and Christmas cards. Whenever Jill was in town she and Claire would sometimes come to the house for a visit. After my husband passed away I didn't keep up with the birthdays but we did exchange Christmas cards and occasional telephone calls. The last time I saw Claire was when she had tried to carry on the tradition of my husband's peanut parties for St. Vincent graduates, and the Greek Festival. If there are peanuts in heaven I'm sure Claire and my husband are getting ready to boil them. Love and prayers to you and your family.

- Ann Norton, Savannah, Ga

Sending my condolences to Claire’s family and friends. Praying God will give you strength and peace during this difficult time.

- Gar Helmey , Guyton, Georgia

I knew Claire as a young girl and knew she would take the world by storm; and she clearly did! Always happy and kind, Claire was an enthusiastic member of GS Troop 86 and was loyal to her friends! Fortunately, I got to reconnect with her this past year, and am grateful we were able to do so! Betty, your mom was a swell kid and loads of fun to camp with! Eileen, I know she always looked up to you, and was proud of her talented sister! Saying prayers for you all! D.

- McWaters Family, Savannah, Ga

Mike and Betty, Our deepest sympathy for your loss. Claire was a beautiful, loving, and giving lady. She will be missed by all.

- Mike & Joy Povec, Pooler, GA

Claire's vivacious personality will certainly be missed. What wonderful memories she left for her family and friends to treasure.

- Ellen Kilpatrick, Savannah, Ga.

Mike and Betty, We are so sad to hear of Claire’s passing. You all are in our prayers. Claire will be missed.

- Becky Lehto, Savannah, GA

My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.

- Mary Gene Sikes, Savannah , GA

I always loved to stop and chat with Claire when I was biking or walking because I knew I would leave with a smile. Her wit and caring made the neighborhood and world a much better place. Love you guys.

- Chris W, Fishers, IN

Mike and Betty, we are so sorry for your loss. Know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. Hugs... Much love, Nita and family

- Nita Martin and family, Tybee Island, GA

She worked at the Surrey Shoppe for my great uncle, Guerry Norton.

- Ashley Norton Hutcheson , Savannah , GA

We are sending all our love and prayers to your family. We where just talking about all the fun church events and late night swim meets we always saw you all at. Claire was such a pretty soul inside and out and her acts of love and kindness to our family and others will never be forgotten.

- The Wilcox Family , Indianapolis , IN

Mike and Betty, my deepest sympathy to you both. Claire was such a fun, kind hearted and beautiful human being with so much love and compassion in her heart for everyone. The choir was never the same without her. But now she is in God's heavenly choir singing with the angels!! You are in my thoughts and prayers!! God bless you both!! —Julie Lane, Savannah, GA

- Julie Lane, Savannah, GA

Our heartfelt condolences and so much love to all the family. Claire was so special to all of us. May she Rest In Peace knowing her love and her light shine on.

- David Cason and Family, Tybee Island, Ga

Claire was the sweetest, most loyal and captivating soul, a real treasure and my dearest friend. As I will miss her desperately, I will keep her in my mind and heart, always. Samuel Nicholas, Jjackson, Mississippi

- , ,

Claire had the most amazing beauty (inside and out) and an incredibly sharp, smart sense of humor. Once in Wildflecken, she was rushing to finish a video project when one of her coworkers walked into the room and asked, "Where are my keys?" Without missing a beat, Claire jumped up and exclaimed, "The Yankees took them! The Yankees took everything!" I'll bet everyone who knew her could tell scores of similar stories. Claire was also the most magnetic person I ever met --- she could walk into a room and, literally, everyone would turn to look at her. What a lady! I can't imagine the loss that Mike and Betty are experiencing. My love to you both.

- Gene Downs, Durham, NC

All those things you think might count—You can't ever set them down—Don't ever set them down—Never set them down— [————————————————————] I remember; we were all there. all friends. desoto rooftop. watching as the lights dimmed and dawn emerged. I will never set it down.

- Tristram, Atlanta, GA

A candle has been lit!

- Lisa Baines Rudolph , Georg

While I did not know Clair, I feel thru the short time I have been on her Celebration page, that I have gotten to know her thru her pictures and everyone's comments. From her pictures, I see a woman full of life, enjoying life and those around her. From the stories, comments, etc. I read of the love that she shared with her friends and family. I am so sorry for the passing of Clair, I am sure she is sorely missed already. Till you all meet again..

- barbara perlman, HAVRE DE GRACE, MARYLAND

A candle has been lit!

- Patrick Roughen , North Caro

Mike and Betty, You are in our thoughts and prayers as you face this terrible loss. God Bless your dear wife and Mother...she was a fighter; she's now singing again in the heavenly choir! God Bless. Mike and Bernadette

- Bernadette and Mike Winters, Savannah, GA

God blessed me with my path crossing Claire's path. I am only able to recall the special, sweet,funny moments we shared,for awhile, be it at church singing "in the seats closest to heaven",sharing in the run of a play or just silly thoughts. My sincerest sympathies to Mike,Betty,family and those of us who love Claire.

- Mary M. Kessler, Lawrenceville, Ga.

Mike and Betty, we are sadden to hear of Claire's passing. She was so welcoming to us when we lived in Savannah, as was your whole family, and I loved to hear her stories of her antics while growing up there. She was a shining light who will keep on burning through the memories we all have of her.

- The Lacombe Family , Hilton Head, SC

My deepest sympathy to you, Mike and Betty. Claire was a kind and generous person.When I visited Savannah over the years, she would show me all the beautiful squares, hotels, monuments, and favorite stores of her beautiful Savannah. She was a most wonderful daughter-in-law and I will miss her very much. God bless you all. Mom and Grandma

- Judy Barsic, Michigan City, Indiana

My deepest condolences to Mike and Betty, and to Claire’s family. May Claire’s beautiful light shine on. Leah Herrin, Steve and Zoë Metz

- Leah Herrin, Nahunta , GA

A candle has been lit!

- Leah Herrin , Georg

Mike, Betty and Family, I know you will hold all of those family memories in your hearts forever! I will hold the memories of our love and shared stories and photos of peacocks and will miss the surprise ways Claire would send them to me! You are in my prayers, dear family. Know that we pray for peace and comfort, especially for you, Mike and Betty. Sr. M. Lillian Quadrella, RSM

- Sr. M. Lillian Quadrella, RSM, Savannah, , Ga

Dear Mike and Betty, my deepest sympathy for your loss. I didn't know Claire as well as my husband did. He often spoke about the two young ladies (Claire and Jill) that worked for him at his store. He always sent birthday cards to each one and Christmas cards. Whenever Jill was in town she and Claire would sometimes come to the house for a visit. After my husband passed away I didn't keep up with the birthdays but we did exchange Christmas cards and occasional telephone calls. The last time I saw Claire was when she had tried to carry on the tradition of my husband's peanut parties for St. Vincent graduates, and the Greek Festival. If there are peanuts in heaven I'm sure Claire and my husband are getting ready to boil them. Love and prayers to you and your family.

- Ann Norton, Savannah, Ga

Sending my condolences to Claire’s family and friends. Praying God will give you strength and peace during this difficult time.

- Gar Helmey , Guyton, Georgia

A candle has been lit!

- Moore , Alabam

I knew Claire as a young girl and knew she would take the world by storm; and she clearly did! Always happy and kind, Claire was an enthusiastic member of GS Troop 86 and was loyal to her friends! Fortunately, I got to reconnect with her this past year, and am grateful we were able to do so! Betty, your mom was a swell kid and loads of fun to camp with! Eileen, I know she always looked up to you, and was proud of her talented sister! Saying prayers for you all! D.

- McWaters Family, Savannah, Ga

Mike and Betty, Our deepest sympathy for your loss. Claire was a beautiful, loving, and giving lady. She will be missed by all.

- Mike & Joy Povec, Pooler, GA

Claire's vivacious personality will certainly be missed. What wonderful memories she left for her family and friends to treasure.

- Ellen Kilpatrick, Savannah, Ga.

Mike and Betty, We are so sad to hear of Claire’s passing. You all are in our prayers. Claire will be missed.

- Becky Lehto, Savannah, GA

A candle has been lit!

- Susan Obrien. (Ward) , Alabam

My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.

- Mary Gene Sikes, Savannah , GA

I always loved to stop and chat with Claire when I was biking or walking because I knew I would leave with a smile. Her wit and caring made the neighborhood and world a much better place. Love you guys.

- Chris W, Fishers, IN

A candle has been lit!

- Janet Cook Zavistovich , District Of Colum

A candle has been lit!

- Diane Parmenter , Massachusetts

A candle has been lit!

- Shannan Carter , Georg

Mike and Betty, we are so sorry for your loss. Know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. Hugs... Much love, Nita and family

- Nita Martin and family, Tybee Island, GA

She worked at the Surrey Shoppe for my great uncle, Guerry Norton.

- Ashley Norton Hutcheson , Savannah , GA

A candle has been lit!

- Desiree D'Ambrosio , Washingto

We are sending all our love and prayers to your family. We where just talking about all the fun church events and late night swim meets we always saw you all at. Claire was such a pretty soul inside and out and her acts of love and kindness to our family and others will never be forgotten.

- The Wilcox Family , Indianapolis , IN

A candle has been lit!

- Becky Kearney Shuman , Georg

Mike and Betty, my deepest sympathy to you both. Claire was such a fun, kind hearted and beautiful human being with so much love and compassion in her heart for everyone. The choir was never the same without her. But now she is in God's heavenly choir singing with the angels!! You are in my thoughts and prayers!! God bless you both!! —Julie Lane, Savannah, GA

- Julie Lane, Savannah, GA

Our heartfelt condolences and so much love to all the family. Claire was so special to all of us. May she Rest In Peace knowing her love and her light shine on.

- David Cason and Family, Tybee Island, Ga

A candle has been lit!

- Shannon Foley Slaughter , Georg

A candle has been lit!

- Fran and Jessica Hodder , Georg

A candle has been lit!

- Piccoli , Georg

Claire was the sweetest, most loyal and captivating soul, a real treasure and my dearest friend. As I will miss her desperately, I will keep her in my mind and heart, always. Samuel Nicholas, Jjackson, Mississippi

- , ,

A candle has been lit!

- Samuel Nicholas , Mississipp

A candle has been lit!

- Kelly & Alex Hunt , Georg

A candle has been lit!

- Victoria Amador , Minneso

Claire had the most amazing beauty (inside and out) and an incredibly sharp, smart sense of humor. Once in Wildflecken, she was rushing to finish a video project when one of her coworkers walked into the room and asked, "Where are my keys?" Without missing a beat, Claire jumped up and exclaimed, "The Yankees took them! The Yankees took everything!" I'll bet everyone who knew her could tell scores of similar stories. Claire was also the most magnetic person I ever met --- she could walk into a room and, literally, everyone would turn to look at her. What a lady! I can't imagine the loss that Mike and Betty are experiencing. My love to you both.

- Gene Downs, Durham, NC

All those things you think might count—You can't ever set them down—Don't ever set them down—Never set them down— [————————————————————] I remember; we were all there. all friends. desoto rooftop. watching as the lights dimmed and dawn emerged. I will never set it down.

- Tristram, Atlanta, GA

A candle has been lit!

- Julie Lane , Georg

Services under the direction of:

Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Islands Chapel
912-898-0900