August 10, 1934 to November 16, 2023

Claire is survived by her husband of 70 years, Bill, her daughters Cindy (Glenn) and Kathryn, son Tim (Susan), her older sister June, five grandchildren, and three great grandchildren. She is predeceased by her beloved sister Peg and son-in-law Roger.

Claire Schilling Stryker was born in a farmhouse in Rosedale, New Jersey, on August 10, 1934.

She was baptized as an infant in the first Presbyterian Church of Hamilton Square, New Jersey. Bill and Claire dated for five years in high school and were married in the very church in which they had grown up together.

Claire joined her husband Bill in the service of several churches from New Jersey to Nevada, partnering with him as a devoted and faithful pastor's wife. She joyfully sang in the church choirs, taught Sunday school, and worked tirelessly with the women's fellowship groups over the years. Claire also loved to cook and entertain, and the Stryker home was often full of family and friends who would gather to share an evening of fun and delicious food. She also became involved in other community activities, and was especially committed to the Philanthropical Education Organization (PEO) which provides scholarships in colleges and universities for young women.

When in her late 30's, after working in a local dental office for several years, Claire became determined to earn her Associate's Degree in Dental Assisting from the University of North Carolina. She was sponsored by Dr. Bill Gregory, and her determination resulted in finding a career that she loved. She worked for Dr. Gregory for 10 years as a valued assistant.

Claire was an enthusiast of Welsh corgis and owned six through the course of her life. Her dogs brought her much joy. During many times in her life, she mentioned that when death came, she would prefer for it to happen while she was sleeping. This was what occurred in Michigan on November 16, 2023. It is her beloved family's belief that she is now singing in the heavenly chorus.

In lieu of Flowers, donations can be made to the Michigan Humane Society