Clara Stratton Hamlin's Obituary
Clara Hamlin transitioned gracefully into Heaven on June 14th 2023, after a sudden illness.
She was born on August 8th, 1938, to her best friend and mother, Lakie Mae Ballengee and loving father, Bert Ballengee.
Clara was an extraordinary woman - a wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend to so many. She loved effortlessly and fearlessly. Making a lasting impression on anyone who crossed her path. As an avid crocheter, she gave many of her projects away to expecting parents and kids all over the tri-state area. She retired from Cabell County Schools as a Head Cook some 20 odd years ago - but that never stopped her from cooking for anyone who needed to be fed. With a heart of gold, Clara was a caretaker for many years for any family that needed her. She also had a special relationship with her granddaughter LaCandace, who was by her side until the very end.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Lakie and Bert Ballengee, her brothers, Don, Dale, and Andy Ballengee, one sister, Helen Loftis, her husband, Lloyd Hamlin, and two sons, Bert and Dennis Hamlin, and special friend Phyllis Doyle, all of West Virginia.
She is survived by her two sisters, Joanne Drown of West Virginia and Audra Miller of Ohio. One son, Bruce (Jody) Hamlin of North Carolina, one bonus daughter, Kay Shepard of West Virginia, four grandchildren, LaCandace (Ethan) Cantrell of Kentucky, Britt (Shayln) Hamlin of West Virgina, Joshua Hamlin of Louisville and Ryan Hamlin of North Carolina. Along with two great grandchildren, Colten and Ryder Hamlin, and one niece, Clarissa (Bobby) Williamson, all of West Virginia. With a host of special nephews, cousins, and many bonus children all over the globe.
The family would like to extend thanks to the amazing staff of Emogene Dolin Jones Hospice House and the ICU Team at Cabell Huntington Hospital.
Per her wishes, there will be no services.In lieu of flowers, do something nice for someone who may need it today.
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