Clara Connelly – October 13, 1928 – July 5, 2021, Omaha, NE. Clara “Clare” passed away peacefully in the early morning of July 5, 2021. Clare was married to Russell “Russ” Connelly for 50 years who preceded her in death in 1997. Also preceded in death by her parents: Harry & Mabel Swanson of Blair, NE; brother: Don Swanson & sister: Elaine Fredlick. She is survived by brother: Howard Swanson & sister: Lorraine Juul.  She is also survived by son: Steven Connelly, fiancé Lori Sofio & her daughters: Alexis and Ashley; grandson: Justin Connelly & his wife: Tia; great-grandchildren: Makayla, Charlotte, & Joey Connelly. Also survived by daughter: Carol (Connelly) Hutchings & husband: Ross; grandson: Michael & wife: Mackenzie; great-granddaughter: Evelyn; & granddaughter: Rachel Hutchings.

Born in Kennard, NE, Clare and Russ married October 19, 1947, after a short engagement raising their family in Omaha. She worked as a volunteer at Omaha Methodist for many years.

Clare and Russ enjoyed square dancing, playing canasta and spending time with her siblings, most of whom lived in Nebraska – gathering for holidays and in between. She loved spending time with her son and grandchildren who live in Omaha. She also traveled frequently to California to visit her daughter and family.

Donations in her name can be made to Presbyterian Church of the Master or the Arthritis Foundation (www.arthritis.org), Omaha, NE.