Clara VanOrmer Brooks' Obituary
BROOKS, Clara VanOrmer, age 71, of Waynesville, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at her home with family by her side.
Clara graduated from Valley View High School. She dedicated over 25 years of service as a drug abuse counselor with Montgomery County Corrections, retiring in 1999. She was deeply involved in her community, including work with the American Legion Post 615 Auxiliary, the Progressive Women’s Club, and the Lions Club, all in Waynesville. She also served as a liaison between the Waynesville American Legion and Wayne Local Schools, helping the school with its annual Veterans Day program, Easter egg hunts, Purple Up weeks, and so much more. Recently, she was one of the driving forces and organizers for the Wreaths Across America program, held in conjunction with Miami Cemetery in Corwin to honor veterans.
Clara was organized, thoughtful, and determined, with a natural ability to connect with others. She was caring, outgoing, and friendly—a one-of-a-kind woman who brought warmth and energy wherever she went. She took great pride in her family and found her greatest joy in their accomplishments and the life they shared together.
Clara lived a vibrant and full life, finding joy in both everyday moments and meaningful experiences. She loved dancing during live music events at the legion, concerts, and while attending and supporting her husband’s gigs. Being organized and meticulous with everything she was a part of, she served as the manager and booking agent for her husband’s classic rock and Beatles tribute band. An avid reader, she enjoyed a wide range of books and was always eager to learn something new. Clara had a talent for finding a great financial deal and truly enjoyed shopping, often turning it into a fun and rewarding experience, especially when shopping for the grandchildren.
She had a passion for travel, especially trips to Sturgis and visits to the beach, with Madeira Beach holding a special place in her heart. Always concerned with nutrition and staying in shape, she enjoyed staying active, whether it was working out at home, walking her dog, participating in the Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving, or simply being outdoors. Clara embraced adventure, even riding motorcycles—never one to ride on the back, she chose to fully experience the bike life by riding her own Harley. She was always proud to be one of the charter members of the Waynesville American Legion Riders.
Family meant everything to Clara! Specifically, she especially cherished time spent with her grandchildren, often taking them on outings and creating lasting memories. Taking the grandchildren to places like Great Wolf Lodge, it became one of her favorite traditions with them, and they always marveled that Grandma never hesitated to join them on roller coasters, water slides, and any activity they wanted to enjoy. Holidays, especially Christmas, were a special time for her, as she loved decorating, organizing gatherings, and making each moment meaningful. She always made sure that the grandchildren received an equal share of gifts so that no one felt left out or less valued. She also enjoyed quiet moments, often with a book in hand, watching crime shows or soap operas, or relaxing with what she fondly called a “skosh of bourbon.”
Clara’s love of family, her adventurous spirit, her gift for bringing people together, and her ability to make life both meaningful and fun. Being extremely community-minded, local organizations, along with those in neighboring communities, will certainly miss the passion Clara brought to every activity or outreach program she was involved with. Oftentimes, with her immense organizational skills and determination to get things done right, Clara was looked to for direction during events. Affectionately, she was referred to as “The Coach” by some of her friends during such events.
Among many things, Clara will be remembered for living life to the fullest. Diagnosed with AML Leukemia in June of 2025, along with the support of her son, she traveled relentlessly to the James Cancer Research Hospital in Columbus and participated in every treatment and clinical trial offered to her, never giving up hope or losing determination to live another day.
Clara is preceded in death by her son, Elliott Brooks, and her parents, Roy and Mary VanOrmer. She is survived by her spouse of 26 years, Tom; her sons, Nick (Amanda) Smith and Michael Brooks; her six grandchildren, Leona, Nicholas Jr., Oliver, Michael Jr., Layla, and Mya; and her sister, Becky VanOrmer.
A life celebration gathering will be held from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at Crossview Christian Church, with a celebration of life service immediately following at 3:00 PM. Pastor Dennis Bunnell will officiate the service. After the services at the church, friends are encouraged to join the family at the Waynesville American Legion Post 615, where food, drinks, and a multitude of funny and cherished stories can be shared as they celebrate the unique and full life that defined Clara.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to American Legion Post 615 or to Blood Cancer United. Stubbs-Conner Funeral Home in Waynesville is serving the family. Condolences may be sent to the family at https://www.stubbsconner.com.
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