Claire June McDowell

Claire June Woodson McDowell, 76, of Pampa, Texas, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 19, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones. Born on March 23, 1948, in Battle Mountain, Nevada, Claire lived a remarkable life defined by fiery spirit, fierce determination, and boundless love. 

Claire embraced many roles throughout her life: a devoted mother, loving wife, accomplished restaurant manager, successful business owner, and an award-winning poet. She brought passion and excellence to everything she pursued, earning the admiration and respect of all who knew her. 

Her hobbies reflected her vibrant personality and creative soul. Claire loved writing, reading, and singing in church, sharing her voice and faith with others. A passionate storyteller, she had an enduring love for all kinds of horror stories, delighting in their twists and turns. 

She is preceded in death by her parents, Charles Woodson, and Clara Blossom Woodson. Her siblings, Bobby Salaz, Francis Salaz Reynolds, David Woodson, Bernie Woodson, and Peggy Schofield Booth. She is also preceded by on child Chad Michael Braun. She is survived by her brothers Richard Salaz of LaCenter Washington and Ernest Woodson of Lakeport California. Her sister, Sherri Schofield of Elko Nevada. Her Children, Shaun Braun of Fayettville Arkansas, Jackie Dawn Fritts of Gore Oklahoma, Jesse Swafford of Waterloo Illinois, Joshua Swafford of McLean Texas, and Charles Swafford of Pampa Texas along with countless grandchildren, nieces, nephews, friends and extended family who will forever cherish her memory. 

A funeral mass celebrating Claire’s extraordinary life will be held at 2:00 PM on Friday, January 24, 2025, at St. Vincent De Paul Catholic Church in Pampa, Texas. Friends and family are invited to gather in remembrance of her life and legacy. 

Flowers or gifts in Claire’s honor may be purchased through Brandon’s Flowers. In lieu of flowers, donations can also be made to St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church and Tralee Crisis Center of Pampa Tx, reflecting Claire’s generous and caring spirit. 

Claire’s fiery determination, loving heart, and creative talents will live on in the memories of all who were fortunate to know her. She leaves behind a legacy of strength, love, and inspiration that will never be forgotten.