Maureen Payne Claes passed away peacefully at the CHUL in Québec City, on Oct. 6, 2025, at the age of 93. She was the beloved wife of the late Raymond Claes and the cherished daughter of the late Margaret Veronica McLaughlin and the late John Patrick Payne. Born in Stoneham, she spent her last years in Quebec City.

Maureen leaves behind her de- voted sister Rose Mary (Eric Cor- rigan) and her brother John (Gail Gray), as well as her husband’s family: Patrick Claes (Michelle), granddaughters Fanny and Charlotte, and Élise (daughter of the late Joëlle and David). Many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends whose lives she touched will carry her memory forward.

She now joins her parents, her husband Raymond and her sisters, Helen (Roland Lafond), Margaret (George Sliwa), Loretta and Sarah (Patrick Maguire), in eternal rest.

Maureen was born and raised in Stoneham, Quebec. She was the fifth of seven siblings. She was known for her radiant smile, joyful spirit and impeccable sense of style. Fluent in both English and French, she kept her sharp eye for detail well into her later years – gently correcting typos in birthday cards with a wink.

A graduate of O’Sullivan Business College, Maureen built a distinguished career as a bilingual executive assistant, working for Canadian Pacific and Lafarge Canada. She retired at 72, leaving behind a legacy of professionalism and grace.

She loved walking to Beaver Lake before work, often with friends or her beloved husband Raymond, with whom she shared 33 beautiful years. Ever elegant, she carried her high heels in a bag and wore sturdy walking shoes for the journey.

Her laughter, fashion flair and brilliant mind will live on in our memories.

A heartfelt thank you to Cecilia Mendoza, Maureen’s cherished friend. Through her generous presence and unwavering support, she helped us care for Maureen with tenderness and dignity.

In memory of Maureen, we invite you to donate to the Jeffery Hale – Saint Brigid’s Friends Foundation (amisdujhsb.ca).

Her life will be celebrated with a gathering of love and remembrance at a later date.