Sister Claire Smith, OSU (aka Claude) entered eternal life peacefully on the morning of April 25, 2024, at Calvary Hospital in the Bronx, where she was receiving care.

Born on May 14, 1937, she was the daughter of Sara Scanlan and Frederick Smith. Claire was a graduate of the Academy of Mount St. Ursula, the College of New Rochelle, Providence College, and Iona University. Claire was a talented person who adapted to various positions and ministries.

Claire began her teaching career in Ursuline schools in Bethesda, Maryland, and Wilmington, Delaware. Moving back to the Bronx, she was on the faculty of St. Angela Merici and St. Jerome’s. Claire served in various capacities of both instruction and administration at the College of New Rochelle.

In the early 1980s, Claire moved from the formal classroom into counseling and spiritual direction. In this capacity, she was able to assist individuals in their personal growth and development.

Claire spent several years journeying with young women who wished to become Ursuline sisters and prepared a life-giving program for them. Many new options were presented to them as they began their lives as Ursulines. She was also a faculty member of the Center for Spiritual Development and was an instructor for the Diaconate program.

Claire is predeceased by her parents and her sisters, Monica and Kathleen Kopa. She is survived by a nephew, Frankie Kopa, and dear friends, Barbara Phillips and Beatrice Sobolewski.

Calling hours will be Tuesday, April 30, 9:15-10:15 a.m., followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at the Ursuline Province Center, 1338 North Ave., New Rochelle, NY 10804. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to the Ursuline Sisters Development Fund at the same address.

Funeral Services will be live-streamed.

Lloyd Maxcy and Sons, Beauchamp chapel is in charge of the arrangements.