Obituary of Clara V.M. Gorham

With great sadness we announce the passing of our mother, Clara Vera Maye Gorham (Mitchell) on April 8, 2024 at Hospice House, Fredericton. Born in Doaktown on June 14, 1938, she was the loving daughter of Arthur and Vida Mitchell and wife of 64 years to Stirling Gorham.

She had a wonderful and very busy life and spoke often of growing up in Doaktown, the Miramichi River, local characters, large extended families, school, and Church life.

The move from Skyline Acres to Nasonworth in the seventies brought many new adventures. She raised her three boys, helped her husband in business, and supported her community. Mom was a tireless volunteer for school, sports, church, community, and political functions. In earlier years she loved summers at Yoho Lake and winter trips to warmer locales.

Clara, like her mother, was a people person. She formed lasting friendships and connections with folks from all walks of life. She maintained contact with a multitude of cousins, aunts, and uncles from Doaktown, never missing an opportunity to attend an anniversary, funeral, or community function. She was a contributor with genealogical projects on the Story, Betts, and Bamford families. She continued her volunteer and learning efforts into later life as well. Her focus switched to women’s issues and aging groups like the Third Age Centre at STU.

In addition to Stirling, Clara will be lovingly remembered by her children, Mitchell (Denise), Anthony (Andrea), and Christopher (Tammy); grandchildren, Celine (Angus), Ally, Reilly (Chelsey), Robyn (Curtis), Hannah (Michael), Lydia (Doug), Duncan (Kendra), and Josie (Caleb); great grandchildren, Cole, Maggie, Violet, and Grace. She is also survived by her nieces and nephews; much loved siblings, William (Ally Lou), and Roger (Cindy); sisters-in-law, Joan, Jean, Nancy, and Jody (Hap); brothers-in-law, Jim (Anna Marie) and Greg (Susan).

Clara was predeceased by her parents; father and mother-in-law, Joe and Berta; brothers-in-law, Frank and Allan; and nephew Craig Mitchell.

The family would like to extend a huge thank you to Hospice House and their amazing staff. Also a special thanks to her niece Angela and special friend Gail for all their comfort, love and support.

A visitation will be held at McAdam's Funeral Home on Wednesday, April 17, 2024 from 4:00 - 7:00 pm. In lieu of flowers donations in Clara's memory may be made to Hospice Fredericton.