Claudia Joyce Beers

Claudia Joyce Beers, native of San Diego, passed away peacefully on June 16, 2017, at the age of 80 as a result of a stroke she had in late May. Claudia’s life was full of cherished friends, family, and good times. She was a loving wife and mother. Her friends and family valued her joyful exuberance for life.

Claudia’s parents were David “Lewis” Palmer and Enid (Storton) Palmer. Her father was a gifted carpenter and built many of the old homes in San Diego that are still standing today. Her mother was originally from England and brought many of her British customs into the family when Claudia was growing up.

She attended San Diego High School, then continued her education at San Diego City College where she earned a degree as a dental assistant. After graduation she worked as a dental assistant in an office in Hillcrest.

Claudia loved all types of music—from bluegrass to Hawaiian music and hymns. She sang in the senior choir at Brooklyn Heights Presbyterian Church when she was younger. Claudia sang in the Hilltop Choir of her high school, which often sang for the patients at the old Balboa Naval Hospital during the holidays. The choir went to many competitions over the years, winning numerous awards. She was a member of Covenant Presbyterian Church where she shared her love of singing as a member of the choir for several years.

Her life was enriched by her love of travel and appreciation of nature. She, her husband, and their two children took trips to Sequoia, Yosemite, and Hawaii. She enjoyed going on cruises and meeting new friends. She loved going to the beach and attending concerts and plays. She was a member of the Hui-o-Hawaii Club of San Diego where she enjoyed listening to Hawaiian music and spending time with close friends.

Throughout her life, Claudia enjoyed collecting dolls and teddy bears. She also spent endless hours with her crafts, often making gifts for her family and friends.

One of her passions in life was ministering to others. For over forty-five years, she gave bible lessons to the residents of the Cloisters of the Valley, located in Mission Valley. She gave her final lesson on May 26, 2017. The residents and staff at the Cloisters will miss her friendly and compassionate presence.

Claudia was predeceased by her brother David Palmer and her sister Eileen Bernardini. She is survived by her husband of 55 years, Robert Beers of La Mesa; son Gregory (Melissa) of Menifee; and daughter Lynnette (Kat) of Laguna Beach.

The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff at Mercy Hospital for their care and compassion during Claudia’s hospitalization and final days.

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, June 29, 2017, at Greenwood Memorial Park.