Clara Ann Embry, nee Sheets, 61, of Freeburg, IL, born Thursday, August 22, 1963, passed away Sunday, June 15, 2025 at her home in Freeburg, IL. She was a devoted mother, cherished friend, beloved aunt, and a woman with a heart as warm as her kitchen.
Known for her incredible cooking, Clara found great joy in feeding others- whether it was a big family dinner or a quiet meal shared with a friend. Her recipes were made with love, and her table was always a place of comfort and conversation.
She treasured time spent with her family and friends, creating lasting memories filled with laughter, stories, and home-cooked meals. Her faithful dog, Shortcake, and her regal cat, Prince were never far from her side and brought her constant joy.
Clara worked for many years as the head cook for Davis Cup in Freeburg, IL, where her food and her warmth made everyone feel like family. She also proudly served her community through her time working at Huck’s and as a secretary for several years at Westhaven Gardens of Bellville, IL, always bringing her strong work ethic and kind heart to everything she did.
Clara will be missed deeply by all who knew and loved her. Her legacy lives on in the meals she shared, the love she gave so freely, and the many lives she touched.
She was preceded in death by her loving:
- Husband: Kenneth J. Embry Jr.
- Parents: Herman and Dorothy, nee Robinson, Sheets
- Nieces: Erica Renee Sheets
- Audrey Embry
- Emilia Prior
- Infant son: Kenneth Joe Embry III
Surviving are her:
- Daughter: Amanda Dorothy Margaret Embry of Freeburg, IL
- Brother: Phillip (Maria) Sheets Sr. of Freeburg, IL
- Nieces and nephews:
- Phillip H. Sheets Jr.
- Angela Knuckles
- Rita (Sam) Niederjohn
- Ronald Niederiohn
- Bryan (Jennifer) Embry
- Brandon (Kristen) Embry
- Great nieces:
- Kaytlin Sheets
- Destiny Sheets
- Great nephew: Evan Sheets
Memorials: Memorials may be made to the family in care of Amanda Embry to help assist with expenses.
Visitation: Visitation will be held Thursday, June 19, 2025 at Kurrus Funeral Home in Belleville, IL from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Services: Funeral will be held Thursday, June 19, 2025 at Kurrus Funeral Home at 12:00 p.m. Interment will follow at Lake View Memorial Gardens Mausoleum, Fairview Heights, IL.
