Claire Luther van Nierop

Claire Luther van Nierop, 86, of Lake Monticello, VA and the English Meadows Senior Living Community, after a long illness, on Wednesday, April 17, 2024

Born October 18, 1937, to Neil P and Geneva Austin Luther, in West Carthage, NY.

Following graduation from Augustinian Academy (1955) and LeMoyne College (BS-1959), Claire relocated to Rochester, NY where she taught science and math at Nazareth Academy and the Greece Central school district for 18 years.

She was employed as a Research Assistant in physiology at the University of Rochester while completing post-graduate studies in administration at the University.

Claire married Richard van Nierop on September 8, 1962, in St. James Minor church, Carthage, NY. The couple made their home in Greece, NY and later in Webster, NY. They both earned
private pilot licenses while members of Williamson (NY) Flying Club.

When Claire and Dick relocated to Cerritos, CA in 1985, she embarked on her second career - as a Legal Assistant with ARCO in Los Angeles. Following retirement in 1995, the couple relocated to Lake Monticello, VA, where Claire served as director of the homeowners' association and volunteered on several LM and Fluvanna County committees.

Claire was a faithful Catholic and longtime member of Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church. Her lifelong passion was needlework. She is well known, and received many awards, for her needlepoint and quilting projects, which she exhibited often.

Preceded in death by sister Mary Redline; brother Jack Luther; nephews Mark, David and Andrew Redline. In addition to her loving husband, she
is survived by nephews Raymond (Susan) Redline, Ohio, and Neil Redline, Utica, NY; sister-in-law Carol (Terril) Decker, Hilton, NY ; several nieces and cousins; and many wonderful and dedicated friends.

Claire's family is appreciative of the dedicated and compassionate care provided by English Meadows, and by PACE/Innovage of the Blue Ridge, during her illness.

Following cremation, a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on May 8, 2024, at 11:00am, at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Palmyra, VA. The family will receive visitors after 10:00am in the church Commons area. Private Interment in the Columbarium Garden of the parish cemetery to follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Claire's memory may be made to Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Debt Reduction Fund, 4309 Thomas Jefferson Pkwy, Palmyra VA 22963; or
Lake Monticello Volunteer Fire Dept. & Rescue Squad,10 Slice Road, Palmyra. VA 22963.

Thacker Brothers Funeral Home, Lake Monticello Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.

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