Clara Jo Best

Clara Jo Best, 72, formerly of Dunlap, died on Thursday, May 4, 2017, 11:41 AM, at Advocate-Condell Medical Center, Libertyville.  Clara was born on June 15, 1944, in Chatham, Illinois.  She was the daughter of John Crabtree Sauer and Lenora (Norman) Sauer. Clara married the love of her life, John Elvin Best, Jr. at her parents' home in Shelbina on September 2, 1962. John preceded her in death on August 16, 2016. Clara is survived by her dear son, John Best and his wife, Delores, of Lindenhurst; two grandchildren, Jennifer Velasquez and Mark Best, both of Libertyville; a great-granddaughter, Jasmine Velasquez of Libertyville; and several nieces and nephews. Along with her husband, John, Clara was preceded in death by her parents.  Clara graduated high school in Shelbina, Missouri.  She worked as a baker for Kroger's for 25 years retiring in 2009. She loved to go to flea markets with John and her sister and brother in law, and was always looking to "catch that sale." Most of all Clara loved spending time with her family. Her loved ones take comfort in knowing that Clara and John are together once again.   A visitation for Clara will be held on Monday, May 15, 2017 from 10 to 11 AM at the First Church of the Nazarene, 1501 Webster St., Galesburg. Funeral services will follow at 11 AM, with Pastor Harold Berrian officiating. Burial will be at Oak Lawn Memorial Gardens following services. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson-Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Memorials in Clara's honor may be given to the First Church of the Nazarene.