Obituary of Claire S. Mendoza

Claire S. (Harrington) Mendoza, 66, of Holyoke, passed away peacefully on October 14, 2020. She was born in Holyoke on August 25, 1954, daughter of the late James Harrington and the late Constance (Crane) Padykula.

Claire lived at Highland House of CHD, Inc. for the past six years and it was there that she found a true home. She enjoyed crafts such as crocheting and was very proud of her creations. Claire spent her days with friends at Odyssey House of Viability Inc. where she was involved with clubhouse activities and volunteering in the community.

Claire’s friends and family wish to sincerely thank those who helped to care for Claire and who helped to make her life happy and fulfilled. Meeting Rev. Greg Dyson, former pastor of Church in the Acres in Springfield, and its members was a turning point in Claire’s life.

One of her closest friends was Kevin Joslyn. Claire loved her many adventures with Kevin. Whether it was going to the movies, the Big E, seeing The Price Is Right live, driving through Bright Nights, shopping or going out to dinner, she always looked forward to their times together. Claire had a wonderful sense of humor and filled a room with laughter as she told hilarious stories with her big smile. She was an impassioned advocate for those with mental illness and the homeless.

Claire is survived by her longtime friend and caregiver, Kevin Joslyn, and his fiance, Ali Appel; her brothers Larry Burbridge and his wife Martha of Union, CT and Sean Padkula and his daughter Haley Rich of Tullahoma, TN and her sister, Glenna Clark of Newington, CT. In addition to her parents, she was also predeceased by her husband, Richard Mendoza. Claire will also be missed by many friends and extended family members.

Visitation will be Wednesday, October 21st from 10-11am at Beers & Story Funeral Home, 1475 N Main St, Palmer. A funeral home service will begin at 11am, followed by burial in St. Thomas Cemetery, Palmer. In lieu of flowers and at Claire’s request, memorial donations may be made to Friends of the Homeless in Springfield, MA. 755 Worthington Street, Springfield, MA. 01105. In honor of Claire, share a joke or a funny story with friends and enjoy the laughter with those you love.