Claire T. Wertz

Claire Tumbleson Wertz, 84, of Charleston, SC left to be with her Lord and Savior on March 23, 2026 at home after a short illness.

Claire was born November 21,1941 to Walter R. Tumbleston and Lillian C. Tumbleston in North Charleston, South Carolina. She graduated from Chicora High School, where she was a cheerleader, active in many clubs, and made lifelong friends.

Claire was married to William "Billy" W. Wertz, Sr. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend who enjoyed spending time with her family and was always there to help. Claire worked for the South Carolina Highway Department in North Charleston after graduating from high school, then was a stay-at-home mom while her children were young. She later worked at Windermere Family Medicine when her children were older.

Claire enjoyed traveling with her husband and friends. She played Bridge with special friends for many years. She enjoyed visiting antique stores, shopping with her daughters, gardening, and baking cakes. Claire was a member of Fort Johnson Baptist Church. She especially enjoyed attending the Better Together Bible study group over the last few years. Claire was known for her kindness, empathy toward others, and helping those in need. She was a special person and will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

Claire was predeceased by her daughter, Kerri Wertz Kitchens. She is survived by her husband William W. Wertz, Sr., her daughter Alesa Wertz Jones (Edward), her son William W. Wertz, Jr. (Jennifer), her grandchildren Adam Jones, Daniel Jones, Alex Wertz, Emma Claire Kitchens, her sister Chelsa Tumbleston Herron, sister-in law Lucia Wertz, brother-in-law Dr. James Stevenot (Charlotte) and nephews Robert Herron and Warren Herron.

A celebration of life to honor Claire will be held at 2:00 PM, with visitation starting at 1:00 PM, Monday, March 30th at Fort Johnson Baptist Church, 1473 Camp Rd, Charleston, SC 29412. Interment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes memorial donations to the Forward From the Fire Campaign at Fort Johnson Baptist Church.

Arrangements by James A. McAlister Funeral Home, 1620 Savannah Highway, Charleston (843) 766-1365.