Claire Edwards' Obituary
The Edwards family sadly announces the passing of their beloved sister, aunty, and
friend. Ms. Claire Mafalda Edwards was known by her family as Tanty Claire. She was
born on the island of Trinidad in the Caribbean and lived in Santa Cruz. She attended
the Ministry of Education and Culture’s John S. Donaldson Technical Institute now
known as the University of Trinidad and Tobago, where she earned the Craftsmen’s
Diploma in Dressmaking and Design. She completed course work in Pattern Drafting
and Garment Construction. At Style Rite Garment Factory Limited in Champs Fleurs
and Dabadie, she was a master dress maker, master pattern designer and grader. She
also did the cutting of all samples.
Her best friend on the island was Bonnie Hewitt, now deceased.
She attended the Full Gospel church in Laventille called Open Bible Church.
She migrated to the United States in her early thirties. She lived in East Orange, New
Jersey for most of her life. She worked for the United States largest and oldest flag
manufacturer, Annin Incorporated for twenty years.
She was also a licensed Minister of the Gospel through Compassion Bible Institute.
She was a lifetime member of the Love of Jesus Ministries in Orange New Jersey.
She was a dedicated volunteer and outreach partner with the church.
Tanty Claire was a great cook, baker, seamstress, dress maker, master pattern
designer, and prayer warrior. She loved dancing, praying, reading the bible and
shopping for others. Even though she was born in August during the height of Summer,
she loved the Winter season. She also loved traveling and was an avid plant lover, so
much so that she would find a way to bring plants from her travels.
She is survived by her three sisters Marilyn, Jean, and Geraldine, and brother, Jerry.
Her older brother Mack is deceased. Her mother Norma Edwards Cross and father
Rawl Cross are deceased. She is also survived by her brother-in-law Clarey Wilson,
numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and her magnificent church family.
Claire has left a remarkable memory for all her friends and family. We will always
remember her generosity even to strangers, gigantic smile, distinct laugh, gourmet
meals, the personalized wardrobe that she created for family, friends, and clients, and
her endless love and conversations about the saving grace of her Lord and Savior
Jesus Christ.
Claire is dancing in Heaven and she is living in her mansion that God has been
preparing for her for the past 80 years. She will always be in our hearts.
Until we meet again…
What’s your fondest memory of Claire?
What’s a lesson you learned from Claire?
Share a story where Claire's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Claire you’ll never forget.
How did Claire make you smile?
