Claire Florence Miliauskas

Claire was the treasured and beloved wife of Raymond Miliauskas. She is survived by her daughter Mona, her son-in-law Matthew, her son Darin, six grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. As the heart of her family, Claire's warmth, wisdom, and unwavering love shaped generations, leaving a legacy of compassion that will endure in the lives of all who loved her.

Claire was a graduate of Wayne State University with a Master of Social Work. It was a career Claire loved. Caring for others needs carried over to her personal life with the same empathy and understanding. Calling Claire when you needed a friend to talk to was something you did because you knew it would be better after than before. Her calming words and common-sense advice had that result. On the other hand, if all was well and you just wanted to do something fun, you would also call Claire. Whatever you did would just be better if Claire was there with you. Claire's love of family and countless friends were cornerstones in her life.

Claire was 14 and Ray 15 when they met at a Friday Night Sock Hop in September of the year 1961. The evening quickly became "getting to know you" and neither danced with anyone else that night. One discovery was that they both would be celebrating their birthdays in October, just 10 days apart-a delightful coincidence that brought a smile to their faces.

They became "steadies" on Claire's birthday, October 26, 1961.

Like most teen romances, they eventually parted ways and went on growing up and living their respective lives. Fast forward to August 2016, when a mutual friend gave Ray Claire's phone number. Ray called and they talked for three hours... The first three of hundreds. Though 55 years had passed since they last saw each other, it didn't take long to rekindle a romance that blossomed anew, filling their days with heartfelt moments and a love that seemed more vibrant than ever.

A year later, on October 27th 2017, Claire and Ray were married. October was, without a doubt, their month.

Claire died peacefully, surrounded by family at Bethesda Hospital East in Palm Beach, Florida following a stroke and related complications. Her passing marked the end of a remarkable journey filled with compassion, laughter, and unwavering support for those she loved most.

Claire's interment at the South Florida National Cemetery in Wellington Florida will be a family-only ceremony scheduled for February 26. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, a donation to either St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or the Shriner's Hospital for children would be appreciated. Claire loved children. She remembered with great fondness the years she worked as a Headstart teacher for the Detroit Public Schools before earning her MSW and switching careers.

Claire...you were cherished, loved and an inspiration to so many people during your life. Now we move those feelings to the Always and Forever Room in our Hearts!

Every Little Thing ............