Clara M. Fort

Clara Marie Fort, age 95, a longtime resident of Newington, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on December 20, 2021. She was the widow of Charles Fort, Sr. Clara was born in Phoenix, AZ, the youngest child of the late Lee and Elizabeth Hutchinson. She was the last surviving of eleven children, brothers: Jasper, Raymond, William Henry, June, and Claude; sisters: Mae Della, Ledora, Laura, Ivory, and Ethel.

Clara graduated from George Washington Carver High School in Phoenix, and attended teacher training courses at Scottsdale College in Scottsdale, AZ. She leaves a legacy of a love of education, which inspired three generations of educators and professionals. Clara was the mother of seven children: Kenny, Marie, Charles Jr., Karen, Lee, Vincent, and Gloria and she raised her children in New Britain and Newington. She was involved in many school, sports, and community organizations. Clara was honored with the “Mother of the Year Award” from the Pride of Connecticut Lodge of Elks and the Anna Warmsley Temple. Clara and her husband, Charles, were both Life Members of Disabled American Veterans Nutmeg State Unit Number One-Auxiliary. Clara was a long time member of St. James Missionary Baptist Church in New Britain, joining in 1949. Clara served the church in the early years as Secretary, member of the Senior Choir and Missionary department. She was also a member of the New Britain Conference of Churches.

Clara retired from the Newington Children’s Hospital to care for her husband. She loved her job and working with the children. She was recognized for her excellent work performance and received commendations. Clara enjoyed a good tag sale and traveling. She loved traveling and her favorite stop was her hometown of Phoenix. Clara especially enjoyed being around family and would attend many activities of her children and grandchildren, and she shared a special bond with each of them. She will be remembered in the hearts of those she loved each and every day. She leaves a legacy of love, smiles, and many memories.

She leaves her surviving children: Marie, Charles Jr., Karen, Vincent, and Gloria; 17 grandchildren, and many great-grandchildren and several great-great-grandchildren; as well as a host of nieces and nephews, friends, relatives, and her church family.

Funeral services for Clara will be held at St. James Missionary Baptist Church, 45 Daly Avenue, New Britain on Tuesday, December 28, 2021 with a visitation at 10:00am and full service at 11:00am. Interment services will follow at Fairview Cemetery, Smalley Street, New Britain. New Britain Memorial & Donald D. Sagarino Funeral Home, 444 Farmington Avenue, New Britain have been entrusted with arrangements. For an online memorial, please visit www.NewBritainSagarino.com.