Claire M. Panebianco, 93, of Mantua, New Jersey, formerly of North Wales and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on December 19, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.
Born and raised in Philadelphia, Claire developed early passions for history, sports, and the drum and bugle corps. She was a proud graduate of John W. Hallahan Catholic Girls’ High School. Claire was a devoted wife to her late husband, Alfonso Panebianco, and a deeply loving mother to her late son Charles Panebianco; Donnamarie (Michael) Maguire; Francis “Frank” (Christina) Panebianco; Roseann “Ro” (Chris) Runowski; and Theresa (Thomas) Zebrowski.
She was a cherished grandmother to Thomas (Rachel) Zebrowski; the late TJ Wilsey; Amanda (Joseph) Colli; Francis Panebianco (Ahmad); Michael (Kerian) Maguire; Madison Maguire; and Alexandria “Allie” Runowski, Brittany Maguire, and a proud great-grandmother to Joseph Colli. Claire is also survived by her sister Elaine (the late Russ) Bono; her brother John “Jack” (Patricia) Rodgers; and many beloved cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Claire devoted her early years to raising her family before beginning a career at the Internal Revenue Service. During her time at the IRS, she formed lifelong friendships with a special group of women who became like family to her. Claire was known for her joyful spirit and her love of bowling, bocce, dancing, card games, and sports—especially college basketball, football, hockey (Lets Go Flyers) and her beloved Philadelphia Eagles (IGGLES). A proud and passionate fan, she never missed a chance to cheer, “Fly Eagles Fly—Go on to victory!”
Family was the center of Claire’s life. She took immense pride in being involved in all of her grandchildren’s lives and treasured her role as “Gigi” to her great-grandson, JoJo. She also had endless affection for her cherished grand-puppies.
After retiring from the IRS, Claire moved from her longtime home in Northeast Philadelphia to North Wales, where she was fortunate to form another close circle of friends and enjoy many happy years filled with laughter and companionship.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend her visitation on Saturday, December 27, 2025, from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. at the Church of the Incarnation, 240 Main Street, Mantua, Gloucester County, New Jersey, followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. Interment will take place at Resurrection Cemetery in Bensalem, Pennsylvania (date to be determined).
Claire’s warmth, strength, and joy for life will forever remain in the hearts of all who were blessed to know and love her.