Clara Wilma MacQuarrie

If you were ever lucky enough to sit across from her at the poker table, you knew, Clara MacQuarrie was an expert at taking your money. Clara Wilma MacQuarrie, who entered her eternal rest on October 16, 2022, was skilled at many things in her 98 years: cards, friendship, bocce, needlepoint, advice, dancing, volunteering, and most importantly, love. Her husband, five children, eight grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and relatives and friends across the world are comforted by her love, which was fierce and unlimited.

Often referred to as ‘The General,’ Clara was a powerhouse who raised five children while her husband Warren – The Colonel – was off fighting in three wars. Their love is the stuff of fairy tales, married in secret and enduring for 80 years. Her best advice on how to sustain such a long marriage? “Don’t sweat the small stuff.” That was Clara – she could make you laugh, which softened the blow when she would inevitably beat you at cards.

Born in Southport, Maine on August 29, 1924, Clara cared about people. She created community wherever she went, which came in handy across many moves as a military wife. Her social life was vibrant and whether it was a dinner party, a poker night or bridge club, she would be dressed in her best with impeccable hair, makeup and jewelry. She was always there for you through the big events and the small, which was a blessing to those who loved her and were loved by her.

Clara, or ‘GG’ to her great-grandchildren, was strong both physically and mentally. She obtained her black belt in Taekwondo at the age of 86. She was proud she outlived Queen Elizabeth. At the ages of 94 and 95, Clara and Warren published their memoirs titled Love and War: Our Journey Through Life. She would not have wanted us to cry, so a celebration of her life will be held on October 26, 2022 at 1:00 pm in Rawlinson Hall at Paradise Valley Estates in Fairfield, CA. All who knew and loved her are welcome. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to the Paradise Valley Estates Benevolence Fund.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.neptune-society.com/location/fairfield-ca for the MacQuarrie family.