We are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of our dear Claire. Cancer overtook her body swiftly and aggressively; we were all shocked. She was preceded in death by the love of her life, Jim Henning, only one year ago.

Claire was born and raised in Belfast, Ireland (Northern Ireland) to Tom and Viola McKechnie. She attended Greenwood Primary School, Bloomfield Grammar School, and Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland.

In 1970, her best friend, Geraldine, and she went to Boston on student visas. One of their first jobs was at the Friendly Ice Cream store, the story goes those two ladies told a pack of lies to get the job.

Fast forward to 1994. While working for the City of Seattle (for 26 years), in the spring of 1994, Claire was introduced to Jim Henning. He was persistent and she was smitten, the two married in October 1994.

Claire and Jim loved to travel and had many adventures together. They enjoyed cooking together, good wine, friends, and family. The family meant the world to her, and they loved the family cookoffs.

Claire was preceded in death by her parents, her brother, Peter McKechnie, and the love of her life Jim Henning. She is survived by her sister-in-law, Alison McKechnie, and nieces Tori and Lexi. She embraced the adult Henning children who love and admire her so much. Cathleen (Michael) McCarthy, Jay (Cindy) Henning, Mike Henning, Matt (Meredith) Henning, and Chris (Ali) Henning. As well as 12 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren she was Gran or G’ma Claire to Brendan McCarthy, Doyle (Lauren) McCarthy, Chelsea Henning, Carley Henning (Jack Bird), Jack Henning, Devon Henning, Emma Sunderman (Tyler), Benjamin Henning, Elijah Henning, Gabriel Henning, Nicholas Henning, and Cathleen (Cate) Henning. Great-grandchildren include Christopher Henning and Eleanor McCarthy. Finally, we want to recognize her dear friends and neighbors who were there until the end, comforting Claire and our family. We are so thankful.

She was the true Irish General; we are so lucky to have had her in our lives. We will celebrate Claire at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Helpline House on Bainbridge Island or Washington Women in Need in Seattle.