Claire Marie McDow Strain's Obituary
In Loving Memory of Claire Marie McDow Strain
Claire Marie McDow Strain was a devoted Catholic, loving mother, sister, cousin, and friend. After a courageous battle with cancer, Claire entered into eternal rest on August 21, 2023.
Claire was born January 18, 1953, to Dennis Wayne McDow and Dorothy Heap McDow and was a lifelong resident of Covington, Louisiana. Claire's life was one of faith, love, and compassion. She joined her beloved husband, Emile Alfred “Al” Strain, in heaven, leaving behind a legacy of love and a family that loved her deeply.
She leaves behind a loving family, including her three children: Britt Thomas Strain (Sandra), Emile John "E.J." Strain (Ashley), and Sara Strain Mendow (Ryan). Her legacy continues through her grandchildren Emile Patrick Strain, Jaci Marie Strain, and Amelia McCoy Mendow, as well as Henry, Camilla, and Belen Frech.
Claire also leaves behind her loving and loyal Australian Shepherd, Ozzy!
She was preceded in death by her parents as well as her siblings Dennis McDow, Patrick McDow, and Nancy McDow Jourdan.
Claire's memory lives on in the hearts of her surviving siblings Elaine Bulloch, Jane McNeill (Tom), Beverly Holliday (Steve), Barbara Pierpont (Lex), Mary Acquistapace (David), Sylvia McDow, Rose Anne McDow, Scott McDow, and Glenn McDow. Her love extended to numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins who will forever cherish her memory.
In recent years, Claire was cared for by her medical advocate and caretaker, Ashley Strain. Her time, dedication, and devotion never wavered throughout her battle and for this we are eternally thankful.
It is with sincere gratitude that we thank Joel and Jill Champagne, who provided invaluable assistance during Claire’s time of need.
As we honor the memory of Claire Marie Strain, let us remember the life she lived, the love she shared, and the faith that guided her. May her soul rest in eternal peace, and may her memory continue to inspire us all.
In this time of mourning, we find solace in the words of the Bible, as Claire herself found comfort and guidance in its verses:
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." - Matthew 11:28
"Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me." - 2 Timothy 7:4
"May the Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace." - Numbers 6:24-26
Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 am from St. Peter Catholic Church in Covington, Louisiana on Saturday, August 26, 2023 with visitation beginning at 9:30 am until mass time.
Interment will follow in Strain Cemetery in Abita Springs, LA. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Catholic Charities in Claire's honor.
E. J. Fielding Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements. Please sign the online guestbook at www.ejfieldingfh.com.
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?