Claire Theresa Ayers

Claire Theresa Ayers (née Sullivan), affectionately known as Nanny, passed away on July 31, 2025, at the age of 89 in Oceanport, New Jersey. Born on January 2, 1936, in Long Branch, Claire was a lifelong resident of the area and a pillar of her community.

Claire was known for her outgoing, generous, and loving nature. She relished being actively involved in her community and cherished the time spent with her family and friends. Her leadership was evident through her roles as the former President of both the Oceanport Hook & Ladder and West Long Branch Fire Company #2 Ladies Auxiliary. Claire's commitment to community service was unmatched; she was a familiar face at all town and fire department events, always ready to lend a helping hand.

Her favorite pastimes included playing various card games and enjoying rounds of bingo. Claire was a devout member of St. Dorthea's Church in Eatontown.

Claire is survived by her daughters Deborah Grace and her husband Stephen, and Darlene Crochet, and son-in-law Thomas Crochet. She also leaves behind her siblings Doreen McCaffrey, Karen Coles and her husband Charles, and brother Jerry Sullivan. Her loving legacy continues through her grandchildren Anthony Grace, Vincent Grace and his girlfriend Erika Land, Rebekah Crochet and her boyfriend Glenn Morgan Jr, and Kyle Crochet and his girlfriend Cassandra Cabrera. Claire also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews. She was preceded in death by her parents Frank and Anne Sullivan (Curley), her brothers George, Robert, Jackie, Richard, and Donald, sisters Joan, Kay, and Peggy, and granddaughter-in-law Caroline Grace.

A celebration of Claire's life will be held at the Oceanport Hook & Ladder Fire Company, 21 Main Street in Oceanport on Saturday, August 9th from 1-5 pm. The family requests attendees to wear casual attire. The family requests contributions be made to the Sarcoma Foundation of America, 9899 Main St #204, Damascus MD 20872 or Web: https://curesarcoma.org/ or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis TN 38105 or Web: http://www.stjude.org/ in Claire's memory.

The Damiano Funeral Home in Long Branch, New Jersey, is assisting the family with arrangements. Claire's life and legacy will be remembered and cherished by all who knew her.

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