Clara Jean Benefield's Obituary
Clara was born in 1932 in Gadsden, Alabama to John and Beatrice Wood. They are now deceased. She joined the Methodist church when she was very young. Her dad was superintentdant of Sunday school. Clara is survived by her husband Marvin. They have been married for 68 years. Daughter Carol Bartlett, and her brother John Rodney of Gadsden. Also, there are two sons in law Dale Winston and Larry Bartlett.
Marvin entered the Air Force and later joined FAA. They traveled some and finally settled in Tampa, Florida. Clara entered USF and earned her Bachelor of Arts degree and then entered the University of Tampa and earned her Masters of Education degree. Later she earned certification in guidance at Jacksonville State University. She taught school for seven years in Tampa and ten years in Alabama. Clara enjoyed playing bridge and crafts. She became a certified bridge director and teacher. She and Marvin went on more than 20 cruises where Clara was a bridge director or craft instructor.
Clara loved cats and her last cat Pogo. She loved him dearly.
She is preceded in death by her daughter Teresa Winston.
What’s your fondest memory of Clara?
What’s a lesson you learned from Clara?
Share a story where Clara's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Clara you’ll never forget.
How did Clara make you smile?