Claire Pauline Taylor, 79, of Big Rapids, passed away with her daughters by her side on Saturday, April 12, 2025.

She was born on December 21, 1945, in Charleroi, Pennsylvania, the daughter of John and Emilie (Dubois) Rosenburg. Claire graduated from Poland High School in Poland, Ohio, Class of 1963, and later attended Ferris State University, earning her degree in 1978. While raising her daughters, she pursued further education at Central Michigan University, earning her teaching certificate in elementary education in 1985.

In 1986, Claire began her teaching career at Morley Elementary School, where she taught first, second, and third grades until her retirement. Her love for teaching extended well beyond the classroom—she had an unwavering passion for helping children learn, and she was tireless in finding creative ways to help lessons “click” for her students. Claire never gave up on a child and left a lasting impact on countless young lives.

After retirement, she continued her devotion to caregiving by helping take care of her mother in her final years.

Claire cherished her role as a mother and grandmother. She especially loved attending her children and grandchildren's sporting events and was famously vocal and competitive from the sidelines.

Claire also had a deep love of travel. Some of her favorite adventures included trips to London, England and Paris, France; cruises through the Caribbean, Hawaii, and Alaska; and all-inclusive stays in Mexico. She also loved road-tripping around Michigan with friends, taking in the natural beauty and simple joys of her home state.

She was actively involved in many community organizations over the years, including the Figure Skating Club, Big Rapids Eagles, Little League, a local bowling league, and card clubs, where she built lasting friendships.

Claire is survived by her daughters: Janet Taylor (Ryan Crump) of Grandville and Jennifer (Shane) Prince of Big Rapids; grandchildren: Joslin Prince, Jadyn Clore, Tycen Prince, and Brantley Taylor; siblings: John (Sandy) Rosenburg of Boardman, OH; Lora (Dave) Titus of Mint Hill, NC; Tommy (Diane) Rosenburg of Spring Hill, TN; Mark Rosenburg of Gastonia, NC; and Dennis (Laura) Rosenburg of Huntersville, NC; best friend: Rosemarie DeAngelo of Campbell, OH; along with several beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews whom she adored.

She was preceded in death by her parents, brother Paul Rosenburg, and uncle and aunt Tom and Matilda Brown.

A memorial gathering was held on Friday, April 25th at 1:00 PM at Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home, followed by a short service at 2:00 PM to honor Claire’s life and legacy.