Claire Mangum

Mary Claire Humphrey Mangum's beautiful spirit departed with amazing grace on May 3 , 2012. Enveloped in the love of her family, in Statesville, N.C. Claire peacefully ended her struggle with cancer at age 50. Claire's generosity and kindness enriched the lives of everyone around her and her deep faith in our Lord brought her tangible holiness throughout her challenge. Her peacefulness, acceptance of God's plan for her and selfless love were a true inspiration to all. Her spirit will live forever in the hearts of her family, friends and community. Claire was born in Martinsville, Va., on June 10 , 1961. She studied costume design at VCU and the N.C. School of the Arts. Moving to Statesville in 1995, her focus shifted to teaching. She found total fulfillment through her work at the American Renaissance School, where her passions and talents combined to the benefit of the children she loved. She is survived by her beloved husband, William, sons, George and Fred, her parents, Donald B. and Mary Ellen Humphrey of Winston-Salem, her brothers, Bryan (Mari) of Wrightsville Beach, David (Leslie) of Asheville, and Philip (Elizabeth) of Wilmington, her two nephews, eight nieces, many cousins, and countless loving friends. The family's gratitude is extended to the community of the American Renaissance Charter School and the Kate B. Reynolds Hospice Center and the Gordon Hospice House. A visitation will be held on Friday, May 11 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. with a funeral Mass on Saturday, May 12 at 11 a.m., both at St. Philip the Apostle in Statesville, NC. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Heifer International or the Forsyth Medical Center Foundation. Online condolences can be made to the family at www.nicholsonfunerals.com/obituaries. Nicholson Funeral Home is assisting the family of Mary Claire Humphrey Mangum.