Obituary of Clara Janice Housen

CLARA JANICE HOUSEN Family members are mourning the loss of Mrs. Clara Janice Housen, who passed away on June 12, 2011 in Reston, Virginia at the age of 95. "Sammye" - as she was affectionately known - was born in Coaldale, WV on March 15, 1916. She was one of eleven children born to George and Ida Webster, and was the last surviving member of her family's generation. After graduating from Bramwell (WV) High School, Sammye attended the School of Cosmetology in Richmond, VA before moving to Gary, WV and eventually buying the salon where she began as a hairstylist. Some years later, after selling the salon, Sammye moved to Cleveland where she worked as a legal secretary and was active in community and charitable organizations. Upon her retirement, she moved to Reston, VA to live with her sister, Bernice Palmer, and be near her niece, Verona Evans. Sammye was married and divorced twice and although she had no children of her own, dearly loved and was loved by her many nieces, nephews and great-nieces and nephews. Sammye's family and friends were the most important part of her life. She is survived by six nieces, two nephews, and twenty one great-nieces and nephews and their families with whom she shared many happy memories and her fabulous coconut cake. She loved international travels, jazz and the blues, singing, dancing and the game of Bridge. She received frequent requests for her version of Gus Kahn's "It Had to Be You" at the retirement center where she spent her final days. Her indomitable spirit will continue to live on in the hearts and minds of those she touched. Those who wish may make a contribution in her name to the Francis I. Proctor Foundation for Research in Ophthalmology ( www.proctor.ucsf.edu ).