Clara Elizabeth Soito

Clara Elizabeth Soito, one of the most beautiful souls created, quietly went to join other family members in God’s presence on August 16, 2020.  She brought her own special spark to life and was an expert at putting a smile on the face of those around her whether child or adult.  She blessed her family and friends and she truly loved.

Clara was born on August 15, 1931 in Atlanta, Georgia.  She was the second child of parents, George and Vesta Shelton, by whom she was predeceased.  She was also predeceased by her sisters Margaret Fisher and Shirley Lewis, and her husbands, Donald Herard and Anthony Soito.  She is survived by her children, Daniel Herard and Debra Herard LaFontaine, 3 very beloved grandchildren, Jessica Cinquegrana, Scott Miller, and Derek Herard, and two Angel babies born to her daughter.  She was blessed with five beautiful great grandchildren who were the lights of her life as well, Matthew Cinquegrana, Abigail Ciquegrana, Alex Miller, Braedon Miller, and Chloe Miller.  Watching them grow brought her great joy.  She is also survived by 3 siblings, Carolyn Desjarlais, Bette Ewing, and George Shelton, Jr.  She enjoyed being one of six siblings.  She considered herself the Family CEO amid lots of jokes and laughter from the other siblings.  She was not just a wonderful sister; she was a wonderful person with so much love to share and such an open heart to share it.  She had a very keen sense of humor, a very mischievous streak, and was a constant reminder of the good in life.  She has so many loving cousins she also cared for deeply.  She was a true family person and always had time for any family member.  Her quiet voice belied her playful spirit and she lived her love of God daily.

Clara will be laid to rest by her husband Donald in St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Pascoag, RI.  The graveside service will be private for family.  A memorial celebration of her life will be planned in the future when such gatherings are safe.

Final arrangements are being handled by Erickson-Hansen Funeral Home in New Britain, CT.  A donation to St. Jude Hospital in Clara’s name is an alternative to flowers.