Clara Bell Riley passed away on October 11, 2019.  She was born on March 20, 1933 in Montgomery, Alabama to the late Andrew Riley and Ella (Snow) Riley.  Clara graduated from Booker T. Washington High School and briefly attended college at Alabama State University.

Clara came to the Lord at an early age and walked with Him for her entire life.  She later taught her children that the life we live should be lived for Jesus Christ.

The search for better employment opportunities, brought Clara from Alabama to Akron, Ohio.  Clara

earned her license in Cosmetology and owned her own beauty parlor for decades. Her business grew and had a well-established client base who patronized her services for many years.

Clara was a passionate gardener and She had a flair for making everything grow and produce beautiful

blooms. Her talent was noticed and rewarded by the City of Akron. She was recognized with a certificate proclaiming her special ability in horticultural arts. She was active in the Order of the Eastern Star for many years. She also was an excellent seamstress and created many beautiful garments. She also dabbled in millinery and made lovely hats. Clara was truly gifted as an artist in many disciplines

Clara was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Fred Riley and Andrew Riley; sister, Eleanor Riley and daughter, Jennifer Williams.

Clara leaves to mourn her passing her children from a former marriage daughters, Denise Green (Prioleau), and Donna Aaron; son, Arthur (Butch) Hardy, Jr.; grandchildren, Justin Green, Clark Green, Barry, Ashley and Austin Williams; Clara was blessed to have great-grandchildren to carry on her legacy;  siblings, King Riley of Atlanta, GA, Thelma King of Akron, OH, Yvonne Kemp and Brenda R. Jaward of Montgomery, Al; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins , extended family and dear friends to cherish her memory.