Clara Elisa Valdes
April 5, 1943 – Feb. 6, 2023
Clara passed away unexpectedly at Kent General hospital in Dover.
Clara was predeceased by her parents, Rafael Morros and Dolores Morros (Maldonado); as well as her sister, Maritza Morros; and brothers, Francisco Morros and Leonardo Morros.
She is survived by her husband of 59 years, Antonio Abelardo Valdes; son, Antonio (Seny); daughter, Clara (Rich); four grandchildren, Andrew, Ana, Ryan and Katie. She is also survived by her brothers, Rafael (Matilde), Jorge (Marcos); and her sisters, Vivi, Miriam and Brigida; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her sister in law, Nieves (Felipe).
Born in the Dominican Republic, Clara was raised in the City of Santo Domingo. At the age of 18, she moved with her mother and brother to Paterson New Jersey where she met Abelardo, the love of her life. Soon after their first child was born, they moved to Dover, Delaware, in pursuit of the American Dream. They spent several years in Connecticut and the Dominican Republic. However, most of the next 56 years were spent in Dover, where they raised their family and developed a vast community of friends.
Clara was a devout parishioner at Holy Cross Church. She served as a Eucharistic minister, was dedicated to supporting migrant workers and could always be found volunteering at the Hispanic booth at the annual international food festival. Most of all, she along with her husband, were pillars in the Latino community both at Holy Cross and the Dover community as a whole.
Clara loved spending time with family, especially her grandchildren. She loved cooking for others and prepared hundreds of Flans for family, friends and volunteer events. She loved music and dancing. Clara was a professional seamstress for most of her life, a gift that she shared with many loved ones over the years.
Clara was a bright light that grew brighter as the years went by. So many of us were touched by her kind and selfless nature. She will be missed by all that knew her.
Mass of Christian Burial will be offered 12PM Monday, Feb. 13, 2023 at The Church of the Holy Cross, 631 S. State St. Dover, DE 19901. Viewing will be held 3PM to 5PM Sunday, February 12, 2023 at The Funeral Home of Michael J. Ambruso, 1175 S. State St., Dover, DE. Entombment will be in Holy Cross Cemetery, Dover.
In lieu of flowers, family suggests donations in Clara's memory to Holy Cross Tuition Assistance Fund to help students in need, 631 S. State St. Dover, DE 19901.
To share a fond memory of Clara or to offer a condolence to her family, Please visit www.ambruso.com.