Clara Fae Woodcock

Clara Fae Woodcock, 90, of Sullivan, passed away Monday, September 18, 2023 at Mercy Hospital in Washington, MO. Known for her humor, creativity, and love for her community, Clara was born on March 2, 1933, in Bourbon, MO, to Elmer and Charlotte Essman.

Clara grew up in Sullivan, MO, and graduated from Sullivan High School in 1950. In October of 1951, she married Leslie Woodcock, and they moved to Maplewood to raise their family. Despite their later divorce, Clara remained a dedicated and loving mother to her two children, Marcha and Jason.

In 1972, Clara returned to Sullivan and began working at the Bobber Cafe, a job she cherished for the next 32 years. Known for her sense of humor and creativity, she delighted customers with her unique rendition of the "Happy Birthday" song, which she sang by "meowing" like a cat. Clara's love for her community extended beyond her work, earning her the affectionate title of "Honorary Town Clown" for Sullivan. She participated in many parades and supported community events, always bringing laughter and joy wherever she went.

Clara's interests were varied and reflected her zest for life. She loved sewing, fishing, and visiting with people. She was well-known for her daily walks, often walking to and from work and then taking an evening stroll. Above all, Clara cherished spending time with her family. She was particularly renowned for her infamous family Christmas hat creations, a tradition that brought much laughter and joy to her loved ones.

Clara will be remembered as a character and a jokester, always ready with a laugh or a funny story. Her tremendous sense of humor and her loving, creative nature will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Clara is survived by her two children, Marcha Lang of Sullivan, MO and Jason Woodcock and his wife, Jennifer of Cowan, TN; six grandchildren: Russell Blackwell and wife, Kari, Casey Bridgeman and wife, Kimberly, all of Sullivan, Faith Evans and husband, George, Gracey Amacher and husband, Andrew, Christian Woodcock, and Andrew Woodcock all of Tennessee; nine great-grandchildren: Kambria, Paislee, Carlotta, Adalyn, Bella, Logan, Matthew, Josiah, & Grayson; a brother, Alfred "Downey" Essman of Turner, OR; a sister-in-law, Eunice Essman of Bourbon, MO; and numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

She was preceded in death by her ex-husband, Leslie Woodcock; a son-in-law, Eddie Lang; her parents, Elmer and Charlotte Essman; a brother, Lytle Essman; and a sister, Zoe Stroup.

A Celebration of Life is being planned for November.

Memorial contributions may be made in Clara’s memory to HALO, Meramec Mission, and First Baptist Church of Sullivan.

Friends may share condolences online with Clara’s family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Sullivan, MO.