Clara Elizabeth (Garrett) Smith

On July 12, 192, in Franklin, Indiana, Clara Elizabeth (Garrett) Smith was the first born of her parents, William and Aileen Garrett. The family moved to Indianapolis when Clara was three years old, and they continued to grow their family.  Clara ultimately was the eldest of 10 children raised by her parents. She had five sisters, three brothers and one cousin all under one roof.  This of course made Clara the “right hand” to her mother.  This added responsibility was something that she took on at a young age and carried throughout her life.

She attended St. Rita Catholic School and went on to attend Crispus Attucks High School.  She was a proud graduate of the Class of 1945. Clara continued her education at Lane Business College and utilized those skills in many roles ranging from working in the office for St. Rita’s Church to working 35 years for the Knights of St. Peter Claver Charities. She retired at age 71.

Clara married her husband, Thomas E. Smith on November 23, 1963 and they were together for 38 and a half years before he was called home to the Lord.  Thomas and Clara adopted two children, Kenneth and Mary Ann and their family was complete.   Clara always tried to instill in them her values of service, love and care for those in need.

She was always one of the first to pitch in wherever there was a need.  She was a charter member of Christ the King Court #97 at the age of 19. She served as recording secretary and Vice-Grand Lady during 1958 and the early 1960’s.  She later served as Grand Lady between 1965-1967. She also organized the hospitality program for bereaved court members and parishioners at St Rita.  Clara and Thomas later joined St. Andrew’s Church in the early 1970’s where she was a faithful member and served as a lector and eucharistic minister.  She was a member of Court #201 and visited the elderly and shut-in, as well as sent cards to the sick or bereaved of the parish.  She volunteered faithfully at St. Vincent DePaul, delivered food for Meals On Wheels and gave her time to teaching 1^st grade students to read. There was never a time when Clara was not putting herself in a position to make a difference in someone’s life.

Clara loved to travel, and she and Thomas took several trips and cruises.  More than travel, Clara loved dolls, arts & crafts, jigsaw puzzles and especially Scrabble.  She was the queen of that game and would challenge ANYONE…ANYTIME!  She also loved children.  She was a Godmother to many and “mother” to many more.

Ubiquitous perfectly describes this wonderful woman.  She showed in her daily life that she was committed to the church and to Jesus’ message of Love of God and Love of Neighbor.

Clara Elizabeth Smith departed this life on Thursday, August 25, 2022 at the age of 95 years. Her husband, Thomas E. Smith; parents, William and Aileen Garrett; sisters: Gloria, Marjorie and Delores; brothers, Thomas and James; and cousin, Walter all preceded her in death.

She leaves to cherish her memory her son, Kenneth Smith; daughter, Mary Ann Smith; sisters, Mary B. and Agnes; brother, Anthony(Nola); and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

While flowers are welcome, the family requests you consider a donation be made to The Greater Indiana Chapter (alz.org) of the Alzheimer Association.