Clara Jean Bennett Bales, fortified with the Sacraments of Holy Mother Church, 92 of Hazelwood passed away peacefully in Cottleville on Monday, September 22nd, 2025.

Clara was born August 6, 1933 in St. Louis, Missouri, one of three children born to the late William and Bereniece Bennett. She married John McNamee Bales in 1953, and they raised their six children in Hazelwood, Missouri.

Clara was a stay-at home mom raising her six children, as well as being the primary caretaker for her grandchildren and several great grandchildren. Her priority was taking care and spending time with her family. As a varsity softball player at Soldan Blewett, Clara was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan. She enjoyed classic movies and musicals, and was a long time member of Our Lady of Mercy and St. Martin de Porres prior to the closing of the parishes.

She was preceded in death by her parents, sister Catherine Zichler, husband John, aunt Agnes Corinne Bennett and her beloved special needs son, John David "Buddy" Bales.

She is survived by her five daughters: Mary (Robert) Piper of Ballwin, Ann Gastler of St. Peters, Jeanne (Christopher) Johnson of St. Louis, Margaret Schroeder of Hazelwood and Gloria (Steven) Kriete of Festus.

She is also survived by ten grandchildren: Alicia Gastler, Eric Gastler (Stephanie), Kathryn Siler (Frank), Andrea Tanner (Zachary), Sarah Hough (Bryce), Alexander Johnson, Samantha Piper (Ian Miller), John Kriete, Daniel Kriete and David Kriete. She is also survived by ten great grandchildren: Tyler Zahner, Wyatt Gastler, Jude Gastler, Logan Gastler, Briggs Hough, Zac Gastler, Violet Tanner, Bauer Hough, Hayes Hough and Everett Tanner.

The family is deeply grateful to the dedicated team at Glenfield Memory Care Homes for their professionalism and compassion.

Memorials may be directed to: Greater Missouri Chapter/Alzheimer's Association and Judevine Center for Autism.

Visitation Monday, October 13th, 9:30 AM until time of Funeral Mass 10:30 AM at St. Ferdinand Church (Florissant). Private interment at Sacred Heart Cemetery.