Clara Hope Castle

In Loving Memory of Clara Hope Castle

Clara Hope Castle, 88, gracefully departed this world on January 5, 2024, at North Pointe Rehabilitation in Meridian, MS, surrounded by her loving family. Born on September 26, 1935, in Forrest City, Arkansas, Clara was the daughter of Orie and Mollie Wilson.

After graduating from high school, Clara and her younger sister, Bonita, embarked on a journey to Memphis, where they both attended Draughon’s Business College. Clara eventually settled in Collinsville, MS, where she lovingly raised her two daughters, Gloria and Patricia. For 25 years, Clara dedicated herself to Meridian Community College where she was an Executive Secretary until her well-deserved retirement.

Clara was a beacon of warmth and affection, a devoted Momma, Granny, sister, and aunt. Her generosity knew no bounds, and her love extended not only to her family but also to animals, reflecting her compassionate spirit. She enjoyed playing cards, reading, and being outside. Clara found joy in art, particularly drawing and painting, leaving behind a legacy of creativity.

Frequent trips to Memphis and Arkansas were a source of delight for “Hope” (as she was called by that side of her family), allowing her to reconnect with her siblings, nieces, and nephews. She enjoyed a particularly close connection to her sister, Bonita. Despite her quiet and trustworthy nature, Clara possessed a sharp wit that brought laughter to her family's gatherings. A remarkable listener, she had a knack for weaving humor into everyday conversations.

She is survived by her daughters, Gloria Anderson (Ronnie) and Patricia Green (David); granddaughter, Jessica Greene (Jonathan); grandsons, Thomas Schnoor and William Patrick Schnoor; sister, Bonita Scruggs (Phil); as well as many step-grandchildren, great-grandchildren, step-great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Orie and Mollie Wilson; five brothers: James Marcum, A.P. Marcum, Junior Wilson, Guy Wilson and Glenn Wilson; and two sisters: Rosemary Gray and Mollie Mae Fusell.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to East Mississippi Animal Rescue (EMAR) in Clara's honor, reflecting her love for both people and animals.

Her grandsons and nephews will serve as pallbearers.

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to her nurse, Charlotte Dunehew, and all of the care-givers at North Pointe Health Rehabilitation Services and Gentiva Hospice.

The family invites friends and loved ones to join them in celebrating Clara's life with visitation services on Wednesday, January 10, 2024 from 11:00 am - 12:00 pm at Robert Barham Family Funeral Home, followed by a graveside service at Macedonia Baptist Church in Suqualena at 1:00 pm, with Dr. Scott Crenshaw and Reverend Gary Morris officiating.

Clara's legacy of love, laughter, and creativity will forever be etched in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her. May she rest in eternal peace.