Fern Ione Cleary

Born in Carnegie, Pennsylvania, Fern earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Geneva College and a Master of Education degree from the University of Pittsburgh. In 1957, she moved to Pinellas County, Florida, where she began her distinguished career in education. She taught for four years at Anona Elementary School before spending 26 years as a science teacher in Seminole.

Throughout her career, Fern was recognized as an outstanding educator and leader. She received numerous awards in Pinellas County and was honored with lifetime honorary membership in the Florida Association of Science Teachers after receiving the Outstanding Florida Science Educator Award at the state convention. She was also a member of the Beta Omega Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma Society International, serving on the Society's Florida Board, and was presented with the prestigious Sarah B. Ferguson Award for her exceptional leadership in education. In addition, Fern served as a member and officer of a Florida chapter of P.E.O. International, an organization dedicated to providing educational opportunities and scholarships for women.

Faith was the foundation of Fern's life from an early age. After moving to Florida, she became a charter member of Christ Presbyterian Church in Largo. Over the years, she faithfully served as a Deacon, Elder, Stephen Minister, Lay Pastor, Bible school and class teacher, and chair of the church's Scholarship Committee. Her dedication to her church and community reflected her lifelong commitment to serving others.

Fern shared 57 wonderful years of marriage with her college sweetheart, Dr. Lynn Paul Cleary, who preceded her in death. She is survived by her loving daughter, Debra Fay Cleary Scharf and her husband, Richard Scharf; her son, Kevin Paul Cleary; her beloved grandchildren, Ashley Elizabeth Pasichnyk (John) and Alexander Scharf; great-grandchildren, Ridley Taylor and Dawson Jay Scharf; her niece, Joy Madden; and her nephews, Dr. Randall McKean and Gary McKean. She was also preceded in death by her sister, Fay McKean.

Fern will be remembered for her passion for education, her steadfast faith, her generous spirit, and the lasting impact she made on her students, colleagues, family, and friends.

A Service of Celebration and Hope of Fern's life will be held on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. at Christ Presbyterian Church, Don Airey Hall, 3115 Dryer Avenue, Largo, Florida 33770. A reception will immediately follow the church service. A graveside service will then be held at 3:00 p.m. at Serenity Gardens Memorial Park, 13401 Indian Rocks Road, Largo, Florida.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Christ Presbyterian Church, the Arbor Day Foundation, the World Wildlife Federation, P.E.O. Chapter E.F., Delta Kappa Gamma, or the Beta Omega Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma.