Claire F. Sennett

Claire F. (St. John) Sennett, of Billerica, died on Friday, April 26, 2024, at Care One in Peabody at the age of 97. 

Born in Franklin on October 1, 1926, Claire was the loving daughter of the late Leo and Florence (Allard) St. John. She spent her formative years in Newton and later graduated from Newton High School, embarking on a career as an inspector at Raytheon.

On a special Christmas Day in 1945, Claire was united in marriage to her childhood sweetheart and true love, Kenneth P. Sennett. Their enduring bond began during their school days and was further cemented by their marriage after Kenneth's service in World War II. Together they built a life that included residences in Waltham, Watertown, Boston, and finally settling in Natick where they raised their family before moving to Billerica in 1967.

Claire was a beacon of kindness and generosity, known for her charitable spirit and unwavering love for her family. She devoted herself to caring for many children in need before ultimately adopting three of her own. Family time was paramount to Claire, and she created countless treasured memories with her loved ones exploring Niagara Falls, Franconia Notch, as well as cherished summer getaways to Salisbury Beach and Hampton Beach. Her deep affection for dogs added another layer of joy to her life.

In addition to her husband, Kenneth, she leaves her children Eve Sennett of Wesley Chapel, Florida, Robert Sennett of Watertown, and Cherie Downey (Mark) of Danvers; Her grandchildren, Kelly Bortzfield, Amy Taylor (Michael), Beth Richmond (Kiel), Robert Sennett II (Megan), and Zachary, Joshua and Jacob Downey; her great-grandchildren, Cohen and Donnovan McKee, Carys and Grayson Richmond, Haley and Geri Taylor, and Robert “Trey” Sennett III; her sister Estelle Chavious of Natick along with many nieces and nephews. She was also the sister of the late Jean Harrell.

Family and friends will honor and remember Claire’s life by gathering for a calling hour in The Joyce Funeral Home, 245 Main Street (Rte. 20), Waltham on Monday, May 6th from 11 a.m. to 12 noon, before processing to Newton Cemetery Chapel where her funeral service will be celebrated at 12:30 p.m. Burial will follow in Newton Cemetery.