Clara Lou Clyburn, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister and woman of deep faith, passed away peacefully on February 22, 2025 at the age of 81. Born on August 24, 1943, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, she was the cherished daughter of Ruth Hood and George Powell and the loving stepdaughter of James Hood. She was preceded in death by her parents; stepfather; and dear sister, Janey Berry.

On February 28, 1960, Clara married the love of her life, James Edward Clyburn, Sr., in York, South Carolina, marking the beginning of a beautiful love story that would endure for more than six decades. Together, they built a life centered around faith, family, and unconditional love. Their marriage was a testament to the power of devotion and partnership, a shining example of the sacred bond they shared.

Clara's greatest joy in life was her family. She and James were blessed with five wonderful children, seven grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren. Clara had a unique and special bond with each of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and they will forever carry her love with them.

Faith was the foundation of Clara's life. A devoted and lifelong member of Red Bank Baptist Church, she served faithfully in numerous roles, including former president of the Senior Choir, dedicated member of the Deaconess Board, Kitchen Committee, Outreach Ministry, Missionaries, and a guiding light in the Sunbeams Ministry. Clara was a virtuous woman, as described in Proverbs 31—clothed in strength and dignity, her kindness and wisdom were gifts to all who knew her. She opened her heart and home to many, caring for not only her own family but also for countless church members and loved ones who affectionately called her "Momma Clara" or "Grandma Clara."

Clara is survived by her husband, James; children, Almetrice Clyburn, Esther Clyburn, Jennifer (Doug) Harbison, Tammy Clyburn, and James Clyburn, Jr.; grandchildren, Chris (Sasha) Reid, Jessica (Colby) Wylie, Jimi (Keantonia) Norwood, III, Christina (Ashley) Fitts, Joseph (Derricka) Clyburn, Sr., Jasmine Chisholm, and Olivia Chisholm; a host of great-grandchildren; a brother, George (Janice) Powell; a sister, Queenesther (Hubert) Jeffries; a brother-in-law, Waymond Berry;  a loving nephew and niece; and a host of other relatives and friends.  Clara cherished the companionship of her neighbors, the Dulin and Tarrant families, who enriched her life with their kindness and friendship.

Clara Lou Clyburn's life was one of love, service, and unwavering faith. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of her family and friends, and though she is no longer with us in body, her spirit remains a guiding presence. As Proverbs 31:28 so beautifully states, "Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her."

A celebration of Clara's life will be held at 12noon Friday, February 28, 2025 at Red Bank Baptist Church 6405 Red Bank Road Germanton, NC 27019.  Interment will follow in the Red Bank Baptist Church Cemetery.  The family visitation will be held from 11:30am until 12noon on Friday at the Church.