Clara Ann Smith, 66, of Doniphan, MO, departed this life Monday, March 10, 2025. She was born February 26, 1959, in Baltimore, MD, to the late Grace Lee (McHenry) and Maurice Watson, Sr.
Clara had earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing and worked as a registered nurse for many years, caring for countless patients with her compassion and dedication. Outside of her career, Clara had a passion for Nascar and enjoyed the excitement and thrill that came with the sport. Clara found peace and enjoyment in the simpler joys of life also including camping, living in the country, listening to The Grateful Dead and Jimmy Buffet, and being around animals.
Surviving are her daughters, Paula (Bill) Monaghan and Clarissa Burns, all of Doniphan; a Goddaughter, Ahna Watson; brothers, Maurice Watson, Jr. and Richard Watson Sr., both of Baltimore, MD; sisters-in-law, Charlene Lamartina and Judy Jenkins; mother-in-law, Hazel Smith; a grandson, Logan (Madison) Monaghan; and multiple nephews and nieces.
In addition to her parents and her husband, Paul Smith, Jr., Clara was preceded in death by her grandparents who raised her, Richard and Grace Johnson, and sisters, Laurie Watson and Kathy Watson.
The family will have a private memorial at a later date.
