In Memory: Clara Simmons
Dear Laurentian Community,
I write today to share the sad news that Clara Simmons died at her home on October 31, 2024, at the age of 77. Clara was a cherished member of the St. Lawrence community who dedicated 40 years of service to our Facilities Operations team before her retirement in 2009.
Clara was born on February 8, 1947, in Ogdensburg and graduated from Hermon DeKalb Central School. She treasured her family, especially her brother Phillip, her niece Joanna, her nephew John, and her extended family, including six great-nieces and nephews and two great-great-nieces and nephews.
She is remembered fondly by colleagues as a dedicated, good-natured team member who liked to joke around. Clara even kept some of them guessing up until the very last moment as to whether she was actually retiring.
Beyond her work and family, Clara enjoyed activities that reflected her curiosity and zest for life, including a love for reading and traveling with friends. She was a talented singer and a proud member of the Acapella North Chorus of the International Sweet Adelines. Clara enjoyed the social aspect of gathering around music and was known to love many different genres. She had just recently shared her warm spirit and wonderful singing voice at our 16th Annual Gospel Workshop and Concert.
In addition, Clara was active in both the DeKalb Hermon Senior Citizen Club and the Canton Senior Citizen Club, where she enjoyed friendships and laughter with her peers.
As we remember Clara, let us honor her legacy of humor, community, and joy. Her commitment to St. Lawrence and her passion for music and friendships are enduring reminders of a life well-lived.
Please join us in celebrating Clara’s life by sharing your memories of her on the St. Lawrence University website. You can read the remembrances of others here.
Sincerely,
Kate Morris