Theresa

Leclaire

Theresa Claire Lisée Leclaire, a beloved mother, mémère, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 30, 2026, at William W. Backus Hospital, with her family by her side.

Born on the family farm in Lingwick, Quebec, Canada, on July 6, 1931, Theresa was the youngest of 12 children born to Alarie and Dorilla (Racine) Lisée. At age 21, she immigrated to Willimantic, Connecticut, where she began working at American Thread and met the love of her life, Real P. Leclaire. They married at St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church on October 22, 1955, and together built a loving home where they raised their three children. After American Thread, Theresa and Real both worked at the University of Connecticut, where she retired in 1993.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Real; her daughter, Kathleen Chambers; her son, James P. Leclaire; and eleven siblings: Raoul, Leo, Lionel, Lucien, Paul, Fernand, Adrienne, Irene, and three who passed away before she was born.

She leaves behind her devoted daughter, Jacqueline, and son-in-law, Robert Chalifoux, who were always there for her; four cherished grandchildren, Jason Leclaire (and Theresa), Elliott Leclaire, Conor Chambers, and Patrick Chambers; her sisters-in-law, Yolande Lisée and Blanche Wojick; her son-in-law, John Chambers; and several nieces and nephews.

Theresa’s open-door policy meant friends, relatives, and neighborhood children always felt welcome. Whether offering freshly baked treats or freeze pops, letting the kids play outdoors, sharing stories with friends and family, or hosting holiday gatherings, she always made room for everyone. She loved long conversations, reminiscing, and simply being surrounded by those she cared about.

She had a wonderful sense of humor and enjoyed life’s simple pleasures, including jigsaw puzzles, game shows, puzzle books, reading, cheering on the UConn Women’s Basketball team, and afternoon naps. She also had a special talent for baking, especially pies. Rarely needing a recipe, she would experiment in the kitchen with a little bit of “dis”and a little bit of “dat,” creating delicious desserts. Her unmistakable French-Canadian accent, cheerful “Allo!”greeting, and familiar, sometimes exasperated, “Jeez, oh man” will be fondly remembered.

In 1999, she moved to Stone Ridge Estates in Lebanon, where she quickly made friends and became an active member of the community. She could often be found attending Mass at St. Francis of Assisi, walking the Green (usually too fast for anyone trying to keep up), or enjoying activities at the Lebanon Senior Center. She also generously volunteered by reading to children at the local elementary school and helping with the Lebanon Senior Center’s annual tag sales and Christmas Bazaars.

In 2025, Theresa moved to Colebrook Village, where she discovered a new love for balloon volleyball and continued making friends.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Windham and Backus Hospitals for their compassionate care. Special thanks go to the staff and residents of Colebrook Village for welcoming Theresa with open arms and contributing to her quality of life. The family also thanks her friends at the Lebanon Senior Center and Stone Ridge for staying in touch and continuing to be part of her life.

Theresa’s legacy of love, laughter, faith, and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Calling hours will be held Wednesday, November 18, 2026, from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. at Potter Funeral Home in Willimantic, Connecticut, followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 67 West Town Street, Lebanon, Connecticut.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Theresa’s memory to Covenant Soup Kitchen in Willimantic, Connecticut; Willimantic Area Interfaith Ministry in Willimantic, Connecticut; or a charity of your choice.