Clara Matthews

Clara Lavern Matthews affectionately known as Aunt Clara was born in Hernando, Mississippi to the late Theodore & Willie Bee Matthews. 

She was truly an exceptional child. Born in a time when they worked in the fields, tended the animals, farmed their own vegetables and drew water from a well. If you didn't know, she did none of those things. She didn't like animals, bugs or any outdoor work of any kind.

After completing Hernando High School Clara attended Valley State College, where she excelled in school. 

Wanting more, she veered out of the deep south and moved to New York in 1961. She worked in the domestic field until she began working for NYS Department of Social Services, retiring after 35 years. Aunt Clara was highly organized in all areas of her life. Clara was highly organized in all areas of her life. Clara was well informed and would actively engage you in a conversation in the political arenas, both locally and nationally.

Aunt Clara's heart was big and full of love, the Lord saw fit for her mother and son. Erwin Demetrius who preceded her in death (1963- 1970). Although their time together was short, her son allowed her to love in a greater way. Everyone knows that Aunt Clara loved children. She always some goodies to share with all the kids. Even if you didn't know her, she introduced herself by saying "Hey, I'm Aunt Clara, what's your name? Now give me a kiss." 

Kind, loving, thoughtful describes Clara Matthews, she treasured relationships and definitely had some good ones. She liked to travel, loved the theatre, but most importantly, she carried a song in her heart. Yes, as you know, Clara loved to sing and loved good singing. Her favorites were the quartet sounds/ groups. She was always at all of the gospel programs, until she decided that she would become a promoter herself. Clara worked with some of the greatest groups such as the Swanne Quintet, Gospel Keynotes, Lee Williams, Jackson Southernaires, the Lindsey Singers, just to name a few. 

In 1964, she became a member of the Mt. Moriah AME Church Family and later joined the Gospelettes, a singing group which was formed by Evangelist Ella Mae Puckett. They worked well together, especially since they were family.

They travelled around the world and everyone loved the group. Clara's sultry sound cannot be duplicated or replaced. 

Over the years, Aunt Clara had some great Sister/ Friends  whom she loved and adored. Frances Ross, Earlean Thompson and Mary Jenkins. She travelled, shopped and would talk on the phone all night with each one of them. Everyone loved Aunt Clara, the lady with a heart of gold, a good friend that would have good times which resulted in amazing memories. Aunt Clara has left a reserved place in your heart and life that is just for her, so don't try to fill it, just remember the times spent together. 

Who knew that on Monday, August 10th, she would leave this earthly place. We are reminded always, In All Things God is Sovereign and He makes no mistakes.

Left here to cherish her memories are her siblings, Barbara Brown- New York, Theodore Matthews, Jr., (Peggy) - Memphis, Chester Matthews - Memphis and Gwendolyn Holmes- Memphis; her god daughters, Lisa Lucas, Brenda Thompson and Angie Barbee- NY; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. 

"Ain't It Sweet, Just To Know One Day We Will Meet."

Lovingly Submitted by The Family  

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Clara Matthews, please visit our floral store.