JOHNSTONE: Claraissa “Clara”, 91, of Willow Lodge Tatamagouche and formerly of Truro and Kemptown, passed away peacefully Wednesday, April 1, 2009 at the lodge. Clara was a loving and devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend to all. Since the passing of her husband Floyd in 1964, Clara lovingly struggled and walked many miles to provide and care for her eight children whom she loved dearly, especially her lovely special daughter Pearl who loved her mother’s special care. Born in Glace Bay, she was a daughter of the late John George and Emma Jean (Kendall) Tutty. She was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch No. 26 Ladies Auxiliary. She is survived by daughters, Annetta Rushton, Kemptown; Ardith (Dale) Lambourne, Masstown; Joyce (Neil) Reid, and Marjorie (Irving) Murray, Bible Hill; Pearl and Janet (Wayne MacMeekin), Truro; sons, David (Carol), Salmon River; William (Lynn), Valley; sister, Sarah MacDonald, Truro; step-sister, Joan, Ontario; grandchildren, Brad (Marlyn), Alton (Lynn), Annette (John), Angie (Craig), Patty (Rob), Adam, Patricia, Mike (Margo), Kim (John), David Carl, Stacy (Mark); 13 great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband, Floyd Vernon; son, Robert; step-daughter, Betty; sisters, Joyce, Dolly; brothers, John, Leslie, Stanley. Visitation will be held 7-9pm today, April 3, funeral service 2pm Saturday, April 4, all in the Mattatall ~ Varner Funeral Home, 55 Young Street, Truro, Rev. Fred Whittier officiating, with a reception to follow in the funeral home. Interment in the Watson Cemetery Truro at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Willow Lodge Tatamagouche or to the Alzheimer’s Society. The family would like to give special thanks to all the staff at Willow Lodge for all their love, care and compassion given to our mother. Private messages of condolence may be sent to the family by visiting the “guest book” at: www.mattatallvarnerfh.com