86, of Lake Monticello, VA , passed away after a long illness,
on Wednesday, April 17, 2024.
Born October 18,1937 to Neil P and Geneva (Austin) Luther, in West Carthage, NY. After graduation from Le Moyne College in 1959, Claire taught secondary math and science for eighteen years; served as a research assistant in physiology at University of Rochester while completing postgraduate studies in administration; and was later employed in the corporate legal department of ARCO in Los Angeles.
Claire married Richard van Nierop on September 8, 1962, in Carthage, NY. The couple made their home in Greece, NY and later Webster, NY. Dick’s Xerox job took them to California for ten years, after which they retired to Lake Monticello in 1995. Claire served as a director of the homeowners’ association, volunteered on several LM and Fluvanna County committees, and was a longtime member of Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church.
Claire’s lifelong passion was needlework. Her needlepoint, embroidery and quilting art was highly regarded and often exhibited.
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, Shaker Heights, 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 passionate care provided by English Meadows, and by PACE/Innovage of the Blue Ridge, during her illness.
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.